Improving Your Dental Care

Orthodontic Treatment For Your Kids: What You Need To Know

Your child's dental health should be a priority. Helping them develop good oral hygiene will set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. While regular checkups and dental care are essential, sometimes additional steps need to be taken to ensure that your children's teeth and gums develop as they should. Orthodontic treatment is frequently required to correct a host of issues, including crowding, gaps, and bite issues. Here are three things you need to know about orthodontic treatment for your children.

The Signs Treatment May Be Needed

The first thing that you need to know is the signs that indicate that orthodontics may be required. Be on alert for teeth that are coming in crooked or misaligned. You'll also want to watch out for difficulty with chewing or biting, something that can indicate bite problems. Baby teeth that are lost earlier or later than expected can also be an indicator that orthodontics may be needed. Your dentist can identify the signs that a trip to the orthodontist is required. It's recommended that you bring your child to an orthodontist for a checkup by age 7 to determine if future treatment is on the table. 

When Treatment Should Start

Another thing to consider when it comes to orthodontic treatment is when your child's treatment will begin. The start of treatment will depend on your child's orthodontic issues and will be at the discretion of your orthodontist. In most cases, treatment will start between the ages of 9 and 14. How long your child will require treatment will also vary. The average time for orthodontic treatment is between 18 and 36 months. It's essential to make sure that your children are following their orthodontist's instructions and caring for their braces properly during treatment.

How Much Treatment Will Cost

If your kid requires orthodontic care, the cost will depend on a few different things. Whether or not your dental insurance will cover orthodontic care will have an impact. Many policies do cover some of the cost of orthodontics for children. The type of treatment and also the length of treatment will also play a role in the total price. The cost of orthodontic treatment for adolescents ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 on average. 

For many kids, orthodontics is a rite of passage. As an adult, there are a few things to know about your kid's orthodontic treatment. First, it's important to know the signs that treatment may be needed. Reach out to a dental professional to learn more about orthodontic treatments


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