Have you noticed any of the following oral health issues with your child?
- Crowded teeth
- Teeth that don’t fit together properly
- Recessed or protruding jaw
- Mouth breathing
- Continual cheek biting
These are all signs that your child might need braces and require a visit to a dentist who focuses on orthodontics for children. Your orthodontist will examine your child’s oral cavity to determine if braces are recommended to help correct the problems which he/she may be experiencing. Orthodontic treatments are beneficial for children starting at an early age.
Your dentist may recommend controlled arch orthodontics in Pittsburgh as a way to change the shape of the jaw and the positioning of the teeth.
What are some of the benefits of this controlled arch orthodontics?
Controlled arch orthodontics in Pittsburgh uses specific devices and subsequent braces to aid in the restructuring of the shape of your face. The orthodontist examines your physiological development and facial structure to determine how to best move your teeth to where they need to be. Instead of just moving your teeth backward, this system moves your teeth forward which has many benefits, some of which are:
- Eliminate tooth crowding
- Reduce the need for extracting teeth
- Lowers the risk of TMD (temporomandibular disorders) or obstructive sleep apnea
- Improved facial appearance
- Improved bite
Other issues with overcrowded teeth may require traditional braces as an alternative method. Your orthodontist will discuss the pros and cons of each treatment to help you decide which option to choose for your child’s mouth.
So, at what age should your little one be getting braces?
The age at which your child should get braces is determined by the structure of your child’s mouth and the problems associated with their oral cavity. Your child should start seeing an orthodontist around the age of 7 for preventative measures. Braces may not be recommended right away since this type of treatment should be done when most of the adult teeth have grown in. Children generally have their adult teeth growing in between the ages of 11-13, making this a good time for orthodontic treatments.
Controlled arch orthodontics will give your children an aesthetically pleasing smile while allowing their teeth to fit in their mouth through a gradual process. Straight teeth can improve a child’s confidence, soothe headache pain, reduce the possibility of TMJ, and help with sleep apnea issues.
Having straight teeth helps to reduce issues with your oral cavity so it is best to address these problems early in life. Your dentist can guide you when considering orthodontics for children or yourself.
