For many children, braces have become a common part of growing up. They work wonders correcting minor to severe issues, helping boost your child’s confidence at a time they can sometimes be uncertain about themselves and their appearance. Although not every child requires it, many benefit from orthodontic treatment like braces. However, as a parent, it can be difficult understanding whether or not your child requires orthodontic care, and what age you should begin looking into orthodontic visits.
Signs to Look For
The fact of the matter is, signs that your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment are not always cut and dry. Thankfully, there are some more obvious signs you can look for that signal you should speak with your trusted Kentlands/Lakelands Orthodontist:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Crowded or over-spaced teeth
- Popping, pain, or other issues with the jaw
- Uneven bite
- Late or early loss of baby teeth
- Cheek biting
Though there are more symptoms than just the above listed, these symptoms are a little easier for parents to identify. If you notice any of these behaviors with your child, it’s probably time to see your Gaithersburg orthodontist.
What Age Should My Child First Visit the Orthodontist?
Regardless of whether or not your child has displayed any of the aforementioned signs, it’s still recommended that children see an orthodontist for the first time by the age of seven. By this age, your Kentlands/Lakelands orthodontist can evaluate your child to decide if treatment is necessary, and if it should begin immediately or delayed until your child’s mouth has had further time to develop. As with most health issues, the earlier a problem is noticed, the easier and more effectively it can be treated — so it’s always best to speak to your trusted Gaithersburg Orthodontist as soon as any potential issues are detected.
Braces and Invisalign
While braces are typically envisioned as the traditional metal variety, there are now many different options of orthodontic treatment available, including a more comfortable and discreet straightening treatment — Invisalign. Unlike braces, which consist of archwires connected to brackets by small ligatures (elastic bands), Invisalign is a series of virtually invisible smooth plastic trays that are molded to fit over your teeth. Not only does this make Invisalign treatment more comfortable than traditional braces, they are also easily removed during meals and for brushing and flossing — making oral hygiene as easy as ever! If you’d like to learn more about Invisalign, speak to your Kentlands/Lakelands Orthodontist today.
Schedule a Visit with Your Gaithersburg Orthodontist
If it’s time for your child to visit their Gaithersburg or Kentland/Lakelands orthodontist, Dr. Charles Harrington is excited to help! Dr. Harrington is comfortable working with patients of all ages, providing the top quality orthodontic care you expect. Contact us today to learn more about our available orthodontic treatment options such as braces and Invisalign, or to schedule your child’s first visit. We look forward to hearing from you!