When people think of braces, they often think of metal brackets that are worn to help straighten the teeth. While this is one of the most popular reasons why child braces are worn, braces can do much more than just that. They can solve a number of dental problems when worn under the supervision of an orthodontic specialist. Here are some of the different issues that braces can help to fix.
Gaps or Crowding
One of the issues that braces can help to fix is spacing issues in the teeth. This is typically either gaps between the teeth or crowding issues. Braces help to move teeth to their proper position, providing the ideal spacing between teeth. Ultimately, this helps to close any large gaps that may be present or space out teeth that are overcrowded and too close together.
Overbite, Crossbite or Underbites
According to the National Library of Medicine, the main reason children undergo orthodontic treatment is aesthetics. Aesthetics does not just affect appearance, however, but also health, as issues like an overbite can cause significant health issues if left untreated. Children’s jaws are not yet fully developed, and as such, teeth can shift to help solve bite issues. Some of the most common bite issues include overbites, crossbites, or underbites. If your child has bite issues, it is strongly recommended that you use child braces to help solve the issue. If the issues are not corrected when a child is young, it can limit the treatment options once their jaw becomes fully developed. Correcting bite issues can be painful and may even require surgery once the jaw has completely developed and formed.
Unmatched Dental Midlines
The final thing that braces can fix is unmatched dental midlines. Unmatched dental midlines refer to teeth that are not in a smooth and even line. Typically, the front teeth are longer or extend out further than the teeth to the left and right of the two front teeth. This creates an unmatched dental midline. This can impact chewing and can lead to other dental problems in the future. Braces can help align these teeth so that they create a smooth line at the end of all of the teeth.
Child braces can be used to help solve gaps and crowding, overbite, crossbite or underbite, or unmatched dental midlines. If you suspect your child may benefit from braces, contact our team at Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental today. We can look at your child’s teeth and make a determination as to whether your child may benefit from braces.