Orthodontic Red Flags To Watch For In Kids Under 10
As parents, we tend to concentrate on brushing, flossing, and routine checkups regarding our child’s oral health. But did you know that orthodontic problems can start showing signs much sooner than you might think—oftentimes before age 10? Catching these problems early on can make a significant difference in avoiding more complicated issues later.
At Soulful Dental Care, we also practice preventive care, particularly when it comes to shaping your child’s smile. What to watch out for:
1. Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
Premature or delayed loss of baby teeth may signal problems with jaw growth or alignment of permanent teeth. If your child has not begun losing teeth by age 6 or is still retaining baby teeth beyond age 9, it’s a sign to investigate.
2. Difficulty Chewing or Biting
If your kid frequently bites their cheek or struggles to chew food effectively, it may indicate crooked teeth or bite problems such as crossbite or overbite. These issues, if not treated, could result in greater treatments down the line.
3. Mouth Breathing or Snoring
Recurring mouth breathing or snoring could be a sign of a narrow jaw or airway blockage—both of which are issues a Pediatric Dentist in Pune can assess. These conditions aren’t simply dental—they have implications for general health and the quality of sleep.
4. Thumb Sucking or Tongue Thrusting
Persistent thumb sucking or tongue thrusting beyond age 4–5 may disrupt normal development of the mouth and teeth alignment. Habit-breaking appliances applied early can avoid later orthodontic issues.
5. Crowded or Crooked Teeth
Noticeably crowded or crooked baby teeth are an early indicator that permanent teeth might not have sufficient space. This is one of the most frequent reasons kids are sent to orthodontists at age 7 or 8.
6. Misaligned Jaw or Facial Asymmetry
If your child’s jaw appears to be off-center when they smile or speak, or if they complain of pain in their jaw, it’s worth getting an early orthodontic consultation. A well-aligned jaw enhances both form and function.
When to Visit a Specialist
Based on the American Association of Orthodontists, kids should receive their initial orthodontic checkup at age 7. This does not imply that your child will receive braces immediately, but an early checkup can direct jaw development and track tooth growth.
In our Dental Clinic in Kothrud, we do gentle child-friendly assessments to identify these red flags early. And though we are experts in preventive dentistry, our clinic also has a full suite of services such as Root Canal Treatment in Kothrud for older kids and teenagers, if required.
Trust Soulful Dental Care for Your Child’s Smile
We are dedicated to the idea of watching children grow with healthy, self-assured smiles at Soulful Dental Care. Our skilled team of pediatric dentists provides tailored, thorough care in a cozy and friendly atmosphere. From initial orthodontic guidance to long-term dental maintenance, we are here for your family every step of the way.
