Nobody knows your child better than you do. In fact, it’s not uncommon for parents to be so in tune with their kids that they can easily notice when something seems off. Whether they’ve begun regularly snoring, mouth-breathing, or their teeth are growing in crowded, these issues can be very obvious to an attentive mom or dad. But how serious are they, and is there anything that can be done to correct them? Here’s how phase I orthodontics can help!
The Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention
When you think about who the typical braces-wearer is, many people automatically picture a teen or young adult. However, today’s orthodontic treatments can be done sooner than ever. Although it may not seem like the obvious choice to treat tooth alignment when your child still has some of their baby teeth, the truth is that this can often save them from more extensive (and expensive) treatment later! That’s why today, children as young as age seven may be referred to an orthodontist.
However, airway issues that originate in the mouth often begin much sooner. In fact, dental professionals recommend that if your child is struggling with breathing problems like snoring, mouth-breathing while at rest, and noticeable crowding or bite issues, they should attend their first orthodontic consultation at as young as age three.
How Does Smile Alignment Affect the Airway?
Although it may not seem that closely related, your child’s tooth alignment can seriously affect their airway. Known as sleep disordered breathing or SDB, this condition can increase your child’s odds of developing cardiovascular disease by 140 percent, risk of stroke by 60 percent, and chances of having coronary heart disease by 30 percent. They are also at a higher risk of exhibiting behavioral problems similar to ADHD once they reach school age.
What is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
While regular orthodontic treatment is typically used to align the smile so it looks and functions properly, phase 1 orthodontics can do much more. This early intervention is frequently provided to prevent airway issues that may make it harder for your child to breathe properly as they grow, as well as address a variety of oral health problems like crowding and crooked teeth. Studies have even shown that by improving a child’s ability to take in adequate levels of oxygen by properly positioning their jaw during sleep, they often experience a noticeable improvement in their behavior, mood, energy, memory, focus and even their grades in school.
Does My Child Need Phase 1 Orthodontics?
Only a trained orthodontist can determine if phase 1 orthodontics are right for your little one. However, if you have noticed any of the following signs that may indicate dental or airway issues in a child as young as age three, schedule an appointment for an evaluation:
- Dental crowding, crooked teeth, or a bad bite, even if the child still has many or all their baby teeth.
- Mouth breathing while at rest, sitting still, and in otherwise good health.
- Snoring.
While these issues may seem minor and some might potentially go away on their own, it is very important to have them evaluated as soon as possible to rule out more serious airway problems. This way, their orthodontist can prevent them from getting worse and negatively impacting their behavior, especially once the child is old enough to begin school. Early intervention can also lessen the complexity of future orthodontic treatment, making it more affordable for the parents and most importantly, more comfortable for the child.
Remember, airway issues can make it harder for your child to breathe properly and can have negative reverberations throughout many facets of their daily life, including their oral health, sleep, and focus. If you notice any issues with the alignment of their teeth or their breathing, don’t wait until they’re older to get help. You can schedule an orthodontic consultation for children as young as three without a referral and help set your little one on track for a lifetime of healthier, happier, smiles!
About Dr. Johnson
Dr. Alex Johnson has been saving smiles for over 30 years. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of South Florida, and his dental doctorate at Washington University, along with his master’s degree and certificate in orthodontics. Since then, he’s continued his education through a variety of notable organizations including the Pankey Institute. He is Board Certified in Dental Sleep Medicine, with a keen focus on airway orthodontics, and a proud, active member of the Florida Dental Association, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and the American Association of Orthodontists. To schedule a consultation for your child for phase 1 orthodontics or airway issues, visit our website or call us at 727-786-7550.