Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in tooth and jaw alignment. Orthodontic treatment uses braces, retainers, and headgear appliances to guide teeth into the correct position for optimal function and aesthetic appeal. For children, early diagnosis and treatment by a Cedar Park children’s orthodontics specialist before the eruption of permanent teeth can prevent future dental problems.
Approximately 4 out of every hundred children require orthodontic treatment to correct their teeth and jaw alignment. While most commonly used on children, these appliances are also effective in treating adults. Orthodontics can either straighten or align your teeth and jaws into a more desirable position, depending on the severity of the problem. Below are some advantages of seeking orthodontic treatments for your child.
- Improves Self-Confidence
Orthodontics can have a positive impact on a child’s self-confidence. A child with a healthy, beautiful smile tends to be more outgoing and willing to approach others. Orthodontic problems also interfere with an individual’s speaking ability and chewing capacity, which can cause embarrassment for the patient. In some cases, corrective oral appliances can be covered by insurance plans, so check with your insurer to see if orthodontic treatment is covered.
- Prevents Other Oral Health Problems
Orthodontic issues often lead to other oral health problems, which can be harder and more costly to treat in the future. For example, when crowded teeth lack sufficient room to erupt into proper alignment, they can become impacted and require surgery to remove them from the gum line. Crowded teeth also tend to have increased plaque and tartar accumulation, leading to tooth decay and periodontal disease.
- Enhances Functionality
Orthodontics provides a wide range of benefits for your child. Unaligned teeth can cause chewing difficulties and speech problems, while crowded or overlapping teeth can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even damage to the jawbone due to poor dental function. Orthodontics can also prevent unwanted chewing or biting of the inside of the mouth.
- Improves Jaw Alignment
When your child’s jaw is not in proper alignment, it can cause facial pain and headaches. With the help of orthodontics, crowded or misaligned teeth are corrected to enhance function and appearance.
- Improves Oral Hygiene
Children with braces must practice good oral hygiene habits since the appliances make it difficult to clean their teeth without assistance. It is essential to take your child in for routine dental cleanings while they have braces, which can remove tartar and plaque buildup that would otherwise lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Reduces the Risk For Bruxism
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common problem for adults and children. When your child grinds their teeth at night or during the day while playing sports or concentrating, it can lead to facial pain and headaches in addition to tooth damage. Orthodontic appliances help protect your child’s teeth from excess pressure and can correct or even prevent bruxism.
To summarize, orthodontic treatment is an essential step in improving your child’s dental health. It helps improve oral hygiene, prevent bruxism, enhance jaw alignment, and improve functionality. It can also contain other dental problems and improve self-confidence.
