When we think about braces or aligners, we typically consider them in terms of straightening teeth. But did you know orthodontics can also help influence how your child’s face grows? That’s right, you are not just getting a great smile. For families looking at orthodontics in Duluth, it is important to understand how early orthodontic treatment can influence the overall appearance and oral health of your child.
Here’s how orthodontics influences the development of your child’s face:
What Changes Can Early Orthodontics Bring to the Face?
- Fixes Jaw Alignment: If your child has an underbite or an overbite, early orthodontic care can help influence the way the jaw aligns as they grow. This provides better function with their bite and a better lower facial aesthetic.
- Improves Breathing and Speech: Poor jaw alignment is sometimes associated with poor breathing or poor speech development in a child. Fixing these things early on can be a big benefit to your kiddo with braces or another appliance.
- Keeps the Face in Balance: The eyes and nose appear more balanced when the teeth and jaws are in proper position, versus out of alignment. Creating alignment between the teeth and jaws also helps to maintain a more natural, symmetric facial shape.
- Reduces the Risk of Trauma: Teeth that stick out (like in an overbite) are more likely to get hurt during sports or falls. Early treatment pulls them back in safely.
When Should You Visit a Pediatric Dentist for Growth Concerns?
- Early Visits Matter: The best time to start looking at your child’s oral development is around age 7. At this stage, some adult teeth have come in, and the jaw is still developing. A pediatric dentist near you can check if everything is growing as it should.
- Timing is Key: Starting treatment too late can make things harder. By visiting early, the dentist can decide the right time to step in and guide the changes that help the jaw and face grow properly.
Why Choose Pediatric Orthodontics for Your Child?
- It’s designed for Growing Kids: Pediatric orthodontics focuses on children’s unique needs. Since their bones and jaws are still growing, treatments are designed to work with that growth rather than against it.
- Prevent Bigger Problems: Fixing issues early can prevent the need for more serious treatments later in life. It may even help avoid tooth extractions or jaw surgery in the future.
- Builds Confidence Early: A nice smile at a young age helps kids feel more confident. When their face grows in harmony with their teeth, it’s a win for both health and self-esteem.
How Does Facial Growth in Children Affect Their Future Smile?
- Jaw Development Shapes the Face: As kids grow, their upper and lower jaws expand and move. Without guidance, they can grow unevenly, which changes the shape of the face.
- Early Habits Matter: Thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, or early tooth loss can affect facial growth in Kids. Orthodontic care can help correct these habits and guide better development.
- Helps with Chewing and Digestion: A balanced bite makes it easier to chew food properly, which supports digestion and overall health.
What Happens During Child Orthodontic Treatment?
- Checkups and Monitoring: A dentist may start by simply watching how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing. No braces needed at first!
- Using Simple Devices: In some cases, early treatments include expanders or spacers to create room for adult teeth. These are gentle and work slowly over time.
- Braces or Aligners Later On: If needed, full braces or clear aligners may be used once more adult teeth have come in. The child orthodontic approach is usually easier and quicker when it starts at the right age.
A Healthy Smile Begins at Flossophie Children’s Dentistry
At Flossophie Children’s Dentistry, we care about more than just straight teeth; we care about growing healthy, happy smiles. Our team understands how your child’s smile and facial growth are connected, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you have questions or are ready for an orthodontic checkup, we’ll make the experience comfortable, friendly, and stress-free.
Let your child’s smile shine with confidence. Book an appointment with Flossophie Children’s Dentistry today and give them the healthy foundation they deserve!