Is there something about the position of your child’s teeth that they or you don’t like? If so there is a good chance that braces may help correct the problem.

There is a general assumption that braces aren’t “useful” or “available” until the baby teeth have all fallen out and the adult teeth have come through. This perception is due to the fact that NHS orthodontic (braces) treatment is usually only offered at the stage where all the baby teeth have fallen out at approximately 12 years old.  This is incorrect as there are times where early intervention using different types of braces can lead to a much better treatment outcome.

Between the ages of six and nine, many kids lose their baby teeth and have new permanent teeth come in faster than their jaws grow. This uneven development can lead to overcrowding and misalignment. This, in turn, can cause long-term issues with bite, chewing, abnormal tooth wear, and concerns about appearance. Many of these issues can be dealt with at a younger age than treatment offered on the NHS.

Even if your child is referred for NHS dental treatment the problem may be deemed to mild to qualify for free treatment or they will be waiting for more than a year to even be assessed.  Also the treatment options will be limited to fixed, metal “train track” braces.  Clear aligners like Invisalign are not offered on the NHS.

It’s important to remember that orthodontic issues can impact on speech clarity and chewing efficiency. Children with misaligned teeth or jaw problems may struggle with pronunciation or proper chewing. There can be uneven wear of the teeth and the kids can be affected psychologically due to the altered appearance.  Braces can address these issues by improving oral function and making the smile more attractive.

Recognizing signs your child may need braces is key to enhancing their oral health and well-being. Early orthodontic intervention can effectively address these issues, preventing future complications and providing a confident, well-aligned smile.

If you would like your child to be assessed  for any of these signs or have concerns about your child’s dental development, get in touch with us to discuss the best treatment options.

For more information please contact Weedon on 01327 342412 or Rushden on 01933 312992 or Northampton on 01604 763627 and we will be happy to help you