When Can Children Get Braces?

Does your child have a dental problem? If the answer is “yes” there’s no reason to worry. Every child experiences dental problems at a certain point. Some cases require more excessive treatments than others. Studies show that between 25% to 50% of children require orthodontics. Up to 45% of children need braces to fix visible teeth problems.

But how can you be sure that your child needs braces? If the problem is only mild, there’s no need to force your child to sit in a dentist's chair for a few hours just to be sure. But if the problem is serious and requires braces, it will only worsen over time if left untreated.

Here at Kingstowne Dental Specialists, we know exactly when children need to get braces.

What Conditions Do Braces Treat?

Braces are usually used to treat one of two problems. The first and more common one is teeth crowding. This happens when baby teeth become crowded too close together, leaving no room for adult teeth to grow in. The issue is jaw misalignment. Braces can help children get rid of overbites and underbites, which are more common among preschoolers than you might think.

Benefits of Wearing Braces

Wearing braces for 12 to 24 months might not sound appealing to your child. However, when you take into account all of the benefits, they’ll realize that braces are worth it. Some of the bigger benefits include:

• Improved ability to bite and chew hard food
• Alleviation of certain speech impairments
• Reduction of cavities and chipped teeth
• Decreased risk of injury from protruding teeth

Not only will braces grant you a better smile and allow you to chew better, but they can also help you improve overall health. Some of the lesser-known benefits of wearing braces include:

• Helping you digest your food
• Prevent jawbone erosion
• Relieve anxiety and boost self-esteem

When Should Your Child Wear Braces?

Orthodontic check-ups are a learning opportunity for everyone. Parents, children, and even the dentists themselves can learn from them. During the appointment, an orthodontist can detect issues with jaw growth or emerging teeth while your child still has their baby teeth in place. 

Dr. Kingstowne recommends that children are seen by an orthodontist as soon as they turn 7. Assessing the child’s jaw at this age allows the orthodontist to see if the permanent teeth are starting to grow normally and whether or not there will be any need for braces in the future. 

What if your child’s teeth start overcrowding at an early age and stay the same by the time they reach high school? Will braces be able to help them then?? It’s never too late to get your teeth straight. A vast majority of children get their braces while they’re in high school. 

Braces for Children at Kingstowne Dental Specialists

Courtney Marzban, DMD, and Robert Marzban, DDS, MDS are experienced dental professionals in Alexandria. They have provided dental treatment for young children and teens in the area for a number of years. If you’d like a healthier smile, our team is here to help. Contact us online or give us a call at (703) 493-0622 to schedule a consultation right away.