Spotting a Bite Problem in Your Children

Bite problems might seem minor, but they can cause major orthodontic issues for your child. That’s why you must catch them early. A pediatric dentist can determine when and how to take action to address your child’s bite problem. 

Although experts estimate that around 90% of children have bite problems, many cases are minor and don’t require immediate treatment. However, significant bite problems require early orthodontic intervention, such as extractions, removable appliances, or jaw surgery. 

In these cases, early treatment can spare your child from costly future interventions and complications from a bad bite. 

Our expert dentists at Hendricks Dental Specialists in Brentwood, Tennessee, specialize in pediatric dentistry, including treatment for bite issues. Around the time your child turns seven, bring them in for an early orthodontic consultation. During this visit, our team examines their bite and takes digital X-rays. 

While bite problems aren’t always easy to see, watch for these signs and symptoms. 

Common signs of bite problems in children

Bite problems in children may occur naturally or can develop because of trauma to the mouth or behaviors like thumb-sucking. Irregularities in your child’s bite may cause:

• Speech problems (e.g., a lisp)
• Mouth breathing
• Trouble swallowing
• Trouble biting and chewing food
• Premature loss of baby teeth
• Visible irregularities like an open bite, overbite, underbite, or crossbite

It’s important for your child to visit us for an early orthodontic evaluation. Early orthodontics can address bite problems while your child’s jaw is still growing and malleable.  

What happens when bite problems go untreated

Untreated bite problems can cause complications in your child’s teenage years or adulthood. Our team can treat your child’s bite problems to prevent future issues, such as:

• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Lopsided jaw growth

Additionally, a significant bite problem can affect your child’s appearance and lead to secondary issues like self-consciousness or low self-esteem. 

To give your child the best chance at long-term oral health and overall wellness, follow our recommendations. 

Possible next steps

Based on the findings of an initial orthodontic consultation, our team makes tailored recommendations for your child. In many cases, immediate treatment isn’t necessary. Our team might suggest waiting a few years and returning for braces or Invisalign®. 

If immediate treatment is recommended for your child, our team explains the next steps. We might recommend devices like palatal expanders to adjust your child’s teeth and jaw or surgery in rare cases. 

Book an orthodontic consultation today

Our team can provide your child with top-of-the-line dental and orthodontic treatment to address bite issues and complications. Schedule an appointment for your child online or over the phone at Hendricks Dental Specialists today.