Children’s Orthodontics for Crowded Teeth – At The Dentist

Malocclusion: Causes and Symptoms

Malocclusion, also known as crowded or crooked teeth, is common in both children and adults. A variety of factors can contribute to overcrowded teeth, including genetic causes like tumours or a cleft lip or palate. Particular behaviours like children’s extended use of a bottle or pacifier can negatively impact the alignment of teeth. Ill-fitting dental crowns and trauma can also contribute to malocclusion.

The most obvious sign of malocclusion is misaligned or crowded teeth, but other symptoms might not be as noticeable. If your child frequently bites the insides of his or her cheek or tongue, develops a lisp, or experiences other problems chewing or talking, our orthodontic team can help by assessing your child’s unique dental situation and determining a treatment plan that will best fit his or her needs .

Advantages of Children’s Orthodontics

Crowded teeth don’t just present cosmetic issues. A failure to treat malocclusion could result in far more serious dental issues, such as gum disease, speech problems, and increased dental trauma risk . This is why it’s better to begin treating orthodontic issues sooner rather than later. Starting around age six or seven can help decrease both the length and cost of treatment.

Those suffering from malocclusion aren’t alone. As many as 75 percent of children can benefit from orthodontic treatment. In addition to correcting crowded teeth, orthodontic treatments also fix bite problems, gaps in teeth, narrow arches, and thumb sucking.

A beautiful, straight smile isn’t just appealing to the eye. Straight teeth are less likely to build up bacteria and cavities and are less prone to periodontal disease. They also boast a decreased risk of chipping or cracking .

What to Expect with Orthodontic Treatment

When it comes to dental braces for children, we realize one size doesn’t fit all. This is why our orthodontists work with you to create a customized treatment plan for your child. We offer many choices for children’s dental braces, including:

• Traditional metal braces: Recent advances have transformed the bulky, bothersome braces of many parents’ pasts into a more streamlined, comfortable fit. Composed of stainless steel or titanium, metal braces are less obtrusive than ever.
• Self-ligating braces: No elastics are required to help with tooth movement, so fewer appointments are required, making this a great option for families on the go. Brackets for these braces come in both metal and clear varieties.
• Invisalign®: For teens who might be more self-conscious about the appearance of their orthodontic appliance, this option uses clear aligners to straighten teeth. Patients will receive new aligners every two weeks to keep teeth shifting into the correct position. As an added perk, aligners can even be removed for eating and drinking.

Our office provides additional options for children’s orthodontic issues. While they aren’t braces, Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) are small implants inserted into the jawbone that anchor orthodontic appliances. This procedure is completed using anesthetic and helps expedite tooth movement. Our orthodontists trained dentists might also recommend special dental appliances like palatal expanders. Children would require this expander if their upper jaw or palette must be widened so teeth can erupt properly.

Children’s Orthodontics at Bowmanville Dental

Being proactive about fixing your child’s crowded teeth saves them from a host of future dental issues and leaves them with the confidence of a beautiful smile. Schedule your child’s complimentary consultation at Bowmanville Dental in Bowmanville, ON today.