Posted on October 18, 2023
According to Gitnux, approximately 20% of kids between the ages of five and 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Taking care of your child’s teeth is critical to ensure that they stay healthy for years to come. While traditional braces may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of oral health, braces can actually help keep your child’s smile healthier than you think. Here are a few ways traditional braces can help protect your child’s smile.
One reason why your child may need traditional braces is because their teeth may be crowding their mouth. This can sometimes happen if their jaw is too small and there isn’t enough room for their teeth. In other cases, a tooth may have come in incorrectly and put pressure on the other teeth. Crowding can be an issue because it can make it challenging to properly take care of your teeth and gums. Kids may have trouble flossing or brushing, which can lead to gum disease. Traditional braces help to straighten the teeth to make it easier to brush and floss.
Another reason why your child may need traditional braces is because they have a tooth gap their dentist recommends closing. Tooth gaps can be a potential problem because they expose the sides of the teeth and the gums to bacteria, increasing your child’s risk of cavities and bleeding gums. Traditional braces can help close the space between the teeth to protect the gums and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
If your child has a misaligned bite, their dentist may recommend you visit an orthodontist for traditional braces. A misaligned bite is when the teeth line up incorrectly when your child bites down. Misaligned bites can make it difficult for your child to properly chew their food, and it could also put additional pressure on your child’s teeth. This can lead to discomfort and pain, and it could also potentially injure the teeth. Traditional braces can help correct misaligned bites to prevent dental injury and make it easier for your child to chew.
Traditional braces are not only a way to give your child straight teeth but they’re also a way to help protect your child’s oral health. If your child has been recommended traditional braces, look no further than our team at Lineberger Orthodontics. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!