Orthodontic Treatment For Children

As parents, we want our kids to have healthy, confident, and beautiful smiles. But how do you know if your child needs orthodontic treatment? At Haggerty Dental, we believe it's important for parents and caregivers to understand when and why orthodontic care matters. Early intervention can mean simpler, more effective treatment down the road. That’s why we offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment services in Plymouth, helping families make informed decisions about their child's dental health.

Here’s a helpful guide on orthodontics for children so you can stay informed!

When Should Your Child Visit An Orthodontist?

According to experts at the American Association of Orthodontists, children should see an orthodontist for the first time by the age of seven. Children have a mixture of baby (primary) and permanent teeth at this age, and the orthodontist can learn a lot from examining them. Our orthodontists advise you on the recommended course of treatment, when it should start, and how long it should take if a problem already exists or is developing. If you're looking for a dependable orthodontist in Plymouth, our experienced team is here to provide personalized care and guidance for your child's smile.

You don't have to wait until your little one turns seven to see an orthodontist if you notice something seems "off". As soon as you see a problem, you should give our practice a call to schedule a consultation with our friendly orthodontists!

What Are Some Signs Your Child Needs Orthodontic Treatment?

While not all children require orthodontic treatment immediately, there are several indicators that might be helpful. Pay attention to these typical signs:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth: Losing baby teeth too early or too late might signal a developing issue and can cause problems with the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them. Our orthodontist can identify and address these issues.
• Biting or chewing difficulties: Your child may have bite problems if they have trouble properly chewing or biting into food. Even though "teething" is usually uncomfortable, painful chewing could be a sign of orthodontic issues that require attention.
• Mouth breathing: Frequent mouth breathing, especially while your child sleeps, may indicate orthodontic problems.
• Jaw shifting or clicking: When your child chews or speaks, you may also notice that their jaws shift or click. Jaw pain and other dental issues can result from the lower jaw shifting due to a bite issue.
• Cheek biting: This may indicate that your youngster’s upper and lower teeth do not fit together correctly when they chew.
• Facial imbalance: Uneven smiles or disproportionate facial structure are examples of facial imbalances that indicate underlying orthodontic issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to make an appointment for an orthodontic evaluation.

Our trusted and attentive orthodontists recognize that children may find seeing an orthodontist frightening. Our objective, now and always, is to establish a friendly, inviting space that makes each visit stress-free and comfortable. We are committed to providing gentle and effective orthodontic treatment for children, ensuring they feel at ease while receiving the care they need for a healthy, confident smile.

If your youngster needs a tailored orthodontic appointment, contact Haggerty Dental today!