How Do You Know Your Child Needs Braces in Newark, OH?

When your child smiles, it brightens your day and warms your heart. You would do anything to make sure that it stays happy and healthy. As they grow older, however, their teeth and facial bones can shift and change, causing misalignment, gaps, and other orthodontic issues. Especially as they enter their teen years, these problems can affect their confidence, their mental health, and their willingness to smile frequently. But did you know that you don’t have to wait until your child is older to get braces in Newark, OH? Keep reading to learn more about the phases of orthodontics and how you can be proactive in keeping your child’s smile beautiful and radiant.

What is Phase 1 Orthodontics?

Basically, Phase 1 Orthodontics starts orthodontic intervention even while your child still has baby teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends taking your child to see a board-certified orthodontist at age 7. At that point, the orthodontist can evaluate how your child’s jaw, teeth, and face are developing and begin any necessary intervention. With braces or an oral appliance, the orthodontist can make necessary changes to your child’s facial structure as it is still forming. At this point, the bones in your child’s face are more easily influenced to develop in the way you want, reducing or even eliminating issues down the road.

What is Phase 2 Orthodontics?

Phase 2 Orthodontics is essentially similar to Phase 1, except this treatment begins after all the permanent teeth have emerged during early adolescent or teenage years. Even if your child received Phase 1 Orthodontic treatment, they may still need Phase 2 to achieve the best results functionally and aesthetically. However, the ground work completed during Phase 1 should mean that Phase 2 treatment lasts a much shorter time and requires less intensive care.

How do I know if my child needs orthodontic care?

If your child has the following problems, even in their baby teeth, you can safely assume that they will need braces at some point:

• Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth.
• Protruding teeth.
• Bad oral habits like thumb sucking.
• Speech issues.
• Problems with breathing comfortably.
• Disproportionate jaw with their head.
• Baby teeth obstructing adult teeth.

Even if your child’s teeth look fine to you, take them to see an orthodontist in Newark, OH early. They have the knowledge and training to identify potential problems and resolve them sooner rather later, when it will entail more extensive treatment to get the same results.

In the end, which scenario would you rather have your child face: some minor orthodontic treatment now or more drastic treatment later on? It’s a no-brainer! So take your child to see an orthodontist for your child’s appointment today. They’ll thank you for it when they’re older and they have a beautiful, straight smile that they’re proud of.

About the Practice

At Wigal Orthodontics, patients in the Heath and Mt. Vernon areas have access to two skilled, experienced orthodontists, both of whom completed orthodontic graduate programs after finishing their dental degrees. They and their staff are committed to providing care that not only improves their patients’ teeth but also puts a smile on their faces. To schedule an appointment, you can call (740) 281-0445 or click here.