Every parent wants the best for their kids, and when it comes to oral health, that involves instilling good oral hygiene habits, fostering a nutritious diet, and taking them to a Tremont family dentistry in IL every six months. During these checkups, we’ll assess the state of their smile, look for signs of tooth decay, and recommend orthodontics, if needed.
Orthodontic treatments are much more than an aesthetic improvement: they prevent dental issues and protect your child’s smile for years to come.
What Clear Braces Can Do for Your Child
1. Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Crooked, shifted, and overcrowded teeth are harder to clean, as there are more surfaces where your toothbrush may not reach. In the long run, this increases the chances of developing tooth decay in children.
Plaque buildup can also cause gum disease, a condition in which the gums become infected and start to recede from the teeth. In the long run, this can cause bleeding gums, sensitivity, and even further tooth loss.
With braces, your orthodontist aligns your teeth into a more manageable position, simplifying your daily brushing and flossing routine.
2. Reduce Jaw Pain
Misalignment can place stress on the jaw, causing pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The TMJ is the hinge that joins your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to perform necessary functions like chewing, yawning, and speaking. When this joint doesn't work correctly, it can lead to TMJ disorders, also known as TMD.
When the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly, the jaw joint and surrounding muscles may be subjected to undue strain. This imbalance may eventually cause pain and stress.
By addressing these alignment issues, braces help you avoid discomfort and maintain a healthy jaw.
3. Assist With Speech Difficulties
The teeth, tongue, lips, and palate all work together to produce distinct and clear speech sounds.
Misaligned teeth can disrupt this delicate coordination. Crooked or crowded teeth can interfere with proper tongue placement and airflow, affecting speech clarity. In the long run, this can lead to speech issues such as lisps, difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, and overall unclear speech.
4. Deal With Chewing Problems
Poor alignment can make it difficult for a child to chew food properly, potentially leading to digestive issues.
When teeth don't meet properly, it's harder to grind food effectively, which can lead to swallowing larger, less-digested pieces, making digestion more difficult. Moreover, a poor bite can lead to accidental biting, causing sores or injuries.
5. Prevent Tooth Wear and Damage
As we mentioned, a malocclusion doesn’t always fix perfectly. This can lead to abnormal wear patterns, weakening dental enamel, and causing sensitivity. Over time, it also makes your child more susceptible to tooth decay and fractures.
By aligning your teeth properly, braces distribute bite forces evenly, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring your teeth last longer.
Protect Your Loved Ones’ Smile with Tremont Family Dentistry in IL
Many people associate braces primarily with cosmetic improvements, but their impact on overall oral health is significant. Besides preventing issues like gum disease and cavities, a straighter smile will allow them to eat and speak comfortably, improving their nutrition and boosting their confidence.
If you suspect your child may need orthodontic treatment—or they’re due for a dental checkup—the team at Smalltown Dental offers a precise diagnosis. Contact us today and schedule an appointment for more information!
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