It’s common knowledge that young children need routine dental care to protect their oral and overall health. In addition to good oral hygiene and home care, routine visits to the dentist should start around age one. However, some children may also need to visit an orthodontics office Leesburg VA. For many children, orthodontic care can be an important step in protecting their teeth.
Keep Small Issues From Turning Into Big Ones
Sometimes, early intervention at a young age can save you time and money. When starting orthodontic treatment earlier, the pain is often less severe and the teeth can shift more easily. As a result, the treatment requires less time and can turn minor alignment problems from worsening into something severe.
Prevent Unnecessary Tooth Decay
Children are already highly prone to tooth decay because of their thin tooth enamel, diets higher in sugar, and difficulty cleaning teeth thoroughly on their own. Crooked teeth are even harder to brush and floss and can trap bacteria and food particles in hard-to-reach places. However, orthodontic treatment can straighten those teeth, making them easier to clean and helping to prevent more cavities.
Stop Serious Conditions from Developing
Poor tooth alignment can affect a child’s bite pattern. If left untreated, these types of issues can lead to tooth and jaw pain, as well as TMJ disorders. Gaps and crooked teeth can also cause uneven wear on teeth, which can lead to chips, cracks, and other damage. Speech and digestive issues can develop as well, so it is important to correct improper alignment whenever a dentist recommends it.
While braces can help a child have a more beautiful smile, orthodontic treatment can also plan an important role in dental health. By starting the process early, you can help prevent complications while shortening the treatment time. Talk to your pediatric dentist today to find out if orthodontic treatment is right for your child.