Many parents think that their children won’t need dental care until their adult teeth start to come in. However, things like braces for kids can make a huge difference in managing dental problems and making sure those adult teeth don’t look crooked.
The reason humans these days need braces lies in the smaller size of our jaws, which is partly why wisdom teeth are so problematic. Adult teeth may come in crooked, which is why it’s important to track their appearance and get ahead of any issues with the right care. It could even save you money down the line if your child avoids developing dental crowding and a misaligned bite.
Waiting for Adult Teeth Myths and the Reality
The idea that orthodontics should always wait until all baby teeth fall out comes from confusion regarding what kind of care a child needs.
Some children do not need treatment until most of their permanent teeth have erupted. Others have problems that need addressing before then.
Mild crowding might only require observation and comprehensive treatment later on. A significant crossbite or a developing jaw discrepancy could become much worse if left alone. That child might benefit from earlier intervention followed by observation.
Why Do Parents Think Waiting Saves Money?
The logic behind waiting is understandable. Parents may reason that braces are expensive, so delaying treatment until the adult teeth arrive should eliminate multiple fittings.
Sometimes, that approach is appropriate. A child without noticeable issues may not need orthodontic treatment. However, not all orthodontic problems are the same, and treatment may be easier while the individual is young.
In that case, postponing an evaluation for your child can mean missing an opportunity to address the underlying problem at an advantageous stage of development.
At What Age Should a Child Start Braces?
There is no universal age at which every child should receive braces. Orthodontists often recommend evaluation between the ages of 7 and 14, but it doesn’t mean they will need them.
Instead, an early evaluation allows an orthodontist to identify developing problems while there is still considerable growth ahead.
The Difference Between Early Evaluation and Early Treatment
One of the biggest misconceptions about children’s orthodontics is that an early evaluation will lead to expensive treatment. The purpose of an early assessment is to determine whether treatment is necessary, and if so, when it makes the most sense.
An orthodontist may recommend:
- No treatment at the present time
- Periodic monitoring as permanent teeth erupt
- Limited interceptive treatment
- Comprehensive orthodontic treatment later
- Treatment coordinated with other dental or specialist care
This approach can actually prevent unnecessary treatment.
What Does Early Jaw Correction Actually Accomplish?
Some orthodontic problems involve more than the position of individual teeth. Jaw relationships and the width or development of the dental arches can also influence how the teeth fit together.
When a child is still growing, certain orthopedic or orthodontic approaches can influence developing relationships more than they can after growth is almost complete.
Early treatment may also help create room for permanent teeth, reduce the likelihood of teeth becoming displaced, or address bad bite relationships.
Phased Orthodontic Treatment Savings
Parents sometimes hear the term “two-phase” or “phased orthodontic treatment” and worry that it means paying for braces twice. While it may involve more than one stage, the finances of it depend on the child’s condition and the orthodontist’s treatment plan.
Ideally, the treatment can simplify the conditions under which later treatment occurs.
What Happens If Kids Don’t Get Braces?
Not every child who has crooked teeth needs orthodontic treatment. Some mild alignment problems are cosmetic and may not require correction.
However, untreated problems can sometimes affect more than appearance. Depending on the condition, children may experience difficulty cleaning crowded teeth or abnormal tooth wear. They may have bite-related discomfort or problems with a misaligned bite.
Teen vs Early Orthodontic Cost
Orthodontic costs depend on a wide variety of factors. For some children, waiting until adolescence may prove straightforward and the more economical option. For others, early treatment can address a developmental problem before it becomes more difficult to manage.
With that in mind, braces for children are often less expensive than for teens, but it’s not an either-or choice.
Instead, ask the orthodontist for a treatment timeline and cost comparison. Ask what happens if we monitor the problem and treat it later, or if treating it now is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Every Child Need an Orthodontic Evaluation at Age Seven?
An evaluation around this age is recommended because it can identify developing problems early. It does not mean every child will need treatment. If they do, you can discuss it with your orthodontist and look at the next steps.
Can Baby Teeth Affect Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes. Baby teeth help maintain space for permanent teeth. They can provide important information about how the permanent dentition develops.
The presence of baby teeth does not always mean orthodontic treatment should wait.
Is Early Orthodontic Treatment More Expensive?
No. Cost depends on the diagnosis and treatment plan. Orthodontists can sometimes limit and target early treatment, while other children may be better served by waiting for comprehensive treatment.
For complicated or lengthy treatment plans, parents can always get a second opinion. It can help them understand their options and make a more informed financial decision.
Can a Child Outgrow Crooked Teeth?
Some alignment changes occur naturally as permanent teeth erupt and the jaws develop. However, don’t assume bigger issues will resolve without professional evaluation.
Don’t Avoid Braces for Kids
Orthodontists recommend braces for kids only when their teeth have problems that need addressing as soon as possible. Sometimes waiting is the right choice, but delaying treatment could also allow a developmental problem to worsen. Always communicate with your family dentist for guidance in this area.
Pediatric Dental Associates is devoted to supporting your child’s oral health with a compassionate approach. Our services cover oral care ranging from special needs to behavior management. Reach out to let us know about your child’s needs and book their first visit.
