Does My 7-Year-Old Really Need Braces?

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*This post on orthodontic care is sponsored by Charleston Orthodontic Specialists. All opinions expressed are our own.

Most people remember wearing braces during their high school years. If they were lucky, the braces came off just before senior portraits and graduation. Based on that experience, parents assume that their own children won’t need to see an orthodontist until at least age twelve or thirteen. 

Listen up, moms. Your child should be evaluated by an orthodontist beginning at age seven. Yes, they may have only lost a few baby teeth, but now is the time for an orthodontic screening as a way to make early adjustments and create a plan for future treatment. 

As your children start to lose their baby teeth, you’ll quickly see if new teeth are coming in at an angle or without proper space to line up with their other teeth. You’ll want to visit an orthodontist to ensure that those new, adult teeth have the room they need. 

Do you notice any of the following with your child? 

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Mouth breathing
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Sucking the thumb, fingers, or other oral habits
  • Crowded, misplaced, or blocked out teeth
  • Jaws that shift, protrude, or are recessed
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Protruding teeth
  • Biting the cheek or into the roof of the mouth
  • Inability to comfortably close lips
  • Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all

Any one of these issues means that it’s time for an orthodontist appointment. During that initial consultation, the orthodontist will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth and may take photographs and digital X-rays to begin their orthodontic record. Your orthodontist also will review any previous dental records and carefully examine not only your child’s teeth, but also their jaw and bite alignment. 

The orthodontist can recommend a timeline for the most effective treatment. Your child may need to start treatment immediately, or in the coming months. By getting an early evaluation, you’ll be better prepared to plan for the very best orthodontic care. And, hey, your kids won’t have to stress about having spectacular smiles for their senior portraits! 

Charleston Orthodontic Specialists offers free exams and flexible payment plans. With a brand new office in Summerville, Charleston Orthodontic Specialists also have a wide variety of product options, including colored braces, Invisalign Teen, and WildSmiles. The practice is the only local orthodontist with Mascot Braces, so a young sports fan can get brackets with the Clemson Tiger and USC Gamecock logos. For your free consultation, call 843-642-8100 to schedule an appointment to have Dr. Nick Savastano evaluate your child’s teeth. Dr. Savastano has more than fifteen years of experience treating the severe bite issues in patients of all ages. 

Come celebrate the grand opening of the Summerville office from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 15. Everyone who stops by for a free, five-minute orthodontic screening will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win free braces. The official Clemson Tiger mascot will be on hand beginning at 10 a.m. for photos. Plus, enjoy refreshments and giveaways. The Summerville office is located at 1101 N. Main St., Suite 305 in the Earth Fare Plaza. Can’t make the event? Enter to win free braces online.

Does my seven year old really need braces?