There are some cases where it is obvious that a child needs braces. As a loving parent or guardian it’s a no brainer at that point; you visit an orthodontist and get braces.
However, there are some cases where getting braces isn’t necessarily a cut and dry decision.
After all, even though braces have become more affordable in recent years (especially with the financing options available at The Orthodontic Group of Chester County), it can still be a challenging financial decision if your child is “on the fence” regarding whether or not braces are needed.
So if you’re a parent or guardian reading this, and you aren’t sure whether or not you should get braces for your child, here are our thoughts.
Also, if you’ve visited another orthodontist and the feeling just wasn’t quite right, we recommend calling our practice closest to you (locations in West Chester, Kennett Square, and Lionville).
WE DON’T ALWAYS RECOMMEND BRACES…
It’s true! Obviously, the majority of patients who visit an orthodontist will need some form of orthodontic care, otherwise they wouldn’t be here.
That being said, we evaluate each patient carefully and recommend the correct treatment option to provide the best possible outcome for your child. That may be traditional metal braces or a different orthodontic appliance.
HERE ARE SOME EARLY SIGNS YOUR CHILD MAY NEED BRACES
If your child is experiencing any of the following problems, it would be a good idea to take them to an orthodontist. As mentioned above, we are happy to provide a second opinion for you!
- Teeth that do not meet correctly (gaps in teeth or teeth that overlap)
- Teeth that are crowded
- An underbite, overbite, or crossbite
- Jaws that make a clicking or popping sound when chewing (this could be due to jaw misalignment)
- Speech problems such as a lisp (this could be due to a jaw or teeth issue)
And more.
If you’ve noticed anything out of the ordinary (or if your child has complained about anything regarding their teeth or mouth), it’s a good idea to see an orthodontist for an evaluation, especially if your child is approaching the age of 7 or already past it (That’s when the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic appointment).
WHAT HAPPENS IF I PASS ON BRACES AND THERE IS A CHANCE MY CHILD NEEDS THEM?
House/rent payment, clothes, bills, food, etc…we get it. Life is expensive and believe us, we’re not saying that you shouldn’t put a lot of thought into it before your child undergoes orthodontic treatment.
A lot of team members at The Orthodontic Group of Chester County have children and grandchildren, so we definitely understand and empathize with how much money it takes to raise a child (or multiple children) these days.
However, orthodontic care is an important and essential part of your child’s overall health and well-being; it isn’t really optional if your child needs it.
While a straight smile and correct bite are not only healthier, orthodontics will actually make your child feel better both physically and emotionally. Physically, not getting braces can lead to other more complicated dental and orthodontic issues down the road, including potential (costly) surgery to fix more extensive damage.
In addition, if a child needs braces and doesn’t get them (even if they are on the fence, so to speak), it can lead to bad headaches (due to a misaligned jaw or poor bite) down the road.
From an emotional standpoint children, teenagers, and adults with a crooked smile tend not to smile as much, which can lead to poor self-esteem and confidence issues that could hinder your child throughout life.
NEED A SECOND OPINION? OR WANT TO MAKE SURE BRACES ARE RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD?
We are not a “braces factory.” Our number one goal is to ensure that your child gets the orthodontic treatment they need; even if that is no treatment at all!
We care for each and every one of our patients as if they were one of our own children, and put the need of the patient before profit. At The Orthodontic Group of Chester County, we’re going to recommend the right treatment for your child, not just the one we think we can sell.
If you’re looking for an orthodontist who will be honest with you about your child’s orthodontic needs, give our location nearest you a call today. We also invite you to check out our reviews to see what patients are saying about us!
If you are on the fence regarding whether or not your child needs braces, give us a call and we’ll give you our honest answer.
Posted by Chester County Orthodontics