Many parents dread the idea of their child having to wear braces. They imagine years of discomfort and social awkwardness for their little one. However, what many parents don’t realize is that orthodontic treatment can have a profound impact on a child’s life, both in the short and long run. Here are just a few ways braces can improve your child’s life.
Better oral health
Teeth that are crowded or misaligned are much more difficult to clean properly. This can lcause tooth decay and gum disease if not corrected. Even a child who regularly brushes and flosses may have trouble keeping their teeth clean if they have a malocclusion.
By straightening your child’s teeth, braces make it easier for them to brush and floss properly, leading to better oral health.
Improved self-esteem
It’s no secret that many kids feel self-conscious about their appearance when they have braces. However, what many people don’t realize is that orthodontic treatment can have a positive impact on a child’s self-esteem.
Studies have shown that children with braces are more likely to feel confident in their smiles and themselves. For one, because straight teeth are easier to clean, there wouldn’t be shame about yellow teeth or bad breath. They are more likely to smile and interact with others, knowing that they do not have dental problems that can be misconstrued as poor oral hygiene. Second, with a better smile comes more compliments from others, which can make your child feel good about themselves.
In addition, when children feel good about their smiles, they’re more likely to show them off. This can lead to increased social interactions and a boost in self-esteem.
Reduced risk of injury
When teeth are misaligned, there is an increased risk of injury to the teeth, jaws, and gums. Crooked teeth are more likely to chip because they don’t fit together properly. They’re also more likely to become loose because of the uneven pressure placed on them. And, if the teeth are protruding, they may be more susceptible to being knocked out entirely.
By correcting these alignment issues, braces help to reduce the risk of potential injuries.
Improved speech
Crowded or misaligned teeth can cause problems with a person’s speech, such as lisping or whistling while speaking. These embarrassing issues can cause a child to feel self-conscious and withdrawn.
Orthodontic treatment can help to correct these problems and improve a child’s speech. As their teeth are brought into proper alignment, they’ll be able to speak more clearly and without any embarrassing issues. Of course, wearing braces can also affect speech for in the short-term, as well. However, it will change over time, and the child’s speech will be improved.
Easier to eat
Crowded or misaligned teeth can make it difficult to bite and chew properly. This can lead to problems with digestion and may even cause a child to avoid certain foods altogether. Misaligned teeth can also cause pain while eating. It puts excess strain on the jaw that, over time, can lead to TMJ problems.
Braces can help to correct these issues and make it easier for a child to eat. As their teeth are brought into proper alignment, they’ll be able to bite and chew more effectively. This can improve their digestion and help them to enjoy a wider variety of foods.
What to Expect
Braces are recommended for children with problems with their teeth’s alignment. The first step is to consult with an experienced dentist to see if braces are the right treatment option for your child. If so, the next step is to have an appointment to get braces put on. This usually takes about an hour. During this appointment, the professional will clean the teeth and then place brackets on them. The brackets are then connected with wires, and the process is complete.
It’s important to note that braces will need to be worn for at least two years, though this time frame can vary depending on the individual. After the braces are removed, your child will need to wear a retainer to help keep the teeth in their new, correct position.
While there is no doubt that braces can be a bit of an adjustment, the benefits far outweigh any temporary discomfort. If you think your child may benefit from orthodontic treatment, be sure to consult with a professional.
While it’s understandable for parents to be hesitant about their child wearing braces, it’s important to remember that orthodontic treatment can positively impact a child’s life. From improved oral health to enhanced self-esteem, numerous benefits come from wearing braces. So, if your child needs orthodontic treatment, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a qualified orthodontist.
