A child's smile is one of the things people notice about them right away. But crooked teeth can have an impact on them for life. In the case of crooked teeth or an improper bite, your child will likely require braces to fix the problem. Early detection of orthodontic problems is very important, as it allows children to receive treatments that are less invasive and more cost-effective. Here are some things to be aware of when it comes to identifying orthodontic problems early on.

Irregular Upper and Lower Teeth

When children's teeth are properly aligned, they can eat better and get more nutrients from their diet. By treating malocclusions, potential future problems can be prevented. Misaligned teeth and abnormal bites can be caused by many factors, but two are the most common. Lower teeth can overlap or protrude from the upper teeth, or upper teeth can overlap or protrude from the lower ones. If your child's teeth are not in contact on both sides, they have a crossbite. Any of these issues can be diagnosed with the help of your child's dentist. Your dentist can then refer you to an orthodontist.

Speech Problems and Jaw Pain

Children with uneven bites, including open bites, often have difficulty producing certain sounds when speaking. On the other hand, uneven bites put undue pressure on the teeth and joints, causing pain. If your child continues to have pain in their jaw or they need the help of a speech therapist, this may be a sign that orthodontic treatment is needed.

Dentist Recommends Braces

By the age of seven, children should visit a dentist. Even if the child still has their baby teeth, the dentist can help identify the problem and determine what needs to be done. Parents may not even realize that a problem exists, or they may check their child's teeth and decide to wait and see if it goes away on its own. A professional opinion can help you decide what's best in that situation. Ask your dentist for a referral to an orthodontist if you think your child needs treatment.

When it comes to your child's oral health, it's important to be proactive and take steps to ensure that they keep their teeth and gums healthy and strong for a lifetime. Braces can be a great way to help your child achieve that. If you're wondering whether or not your child might need braces, contact a dentist, like Sacrey & Sacrey Dentistry, for an appointment.