Does Your Child Need Braces? How to Tell

Braces can straighten your child’s teeth and correct a misaligned bite. Getting your child braces at a young age can help them avoid lifelong problems chewing and talking. If you think your child needs braces, bringing them to the orthodontist in Bethesda and Laurel MD can help. Here’s what you need to know.

Signs Your Child Needs Braces

There are many signs your child needs braces. Here are some things to look for:

• Your child bites the inside of their mouth frequently.
• Your child has difficulty pronouncing certain sounds and words.
• Your child has crooked teeth.
• Your child has an overbite, underbite, or another form of malocclusion.

When To Get Your Child An Evaluation

Many kids see the orthodontist for the first time between the ages of 7 and 11. It’s best to bring your child to the orthodontist as young as possible because the orthodontist may be able to identify strategies that can help your child avoid more serious orthodontic problems in the future. Correcting problems in their early stages can save time and money.

Benefits of Braces

There are many benefits of getting braces.

• Enhanced appearance: Braces can straighten your child’s teeth to make their smile even more beautiful.
• Comfortable experience while chewing: Straightening the teeth and alignment of the jaw makes eating a more enjoyable experience.
• Correct problems with speech: If your child has problems pronouncing certain words, braces can help (or correct the problem altogether).
• Easier to maintain good oral health: Crooked teeth can be hard to clean. Fixing the problem can make it easier for your child to take care of their teeth.

Do you think your child needs a braces evaluation in Bethesda and Laurel MD? Call Heller Orthodontics to make an appointment.