When children still have their baby teeth, the orthodontist often recommends waiting until their baby teeth all fall out and their adult teeth come in before getting braces. Each orthodontist is different in their recommendation. Another question is whether baby teeth should be removed after a certain point to make way for adult teeth and thus braces. Again, each case is different. Always have a discussion with your orthodontist before making this decision.
Waiting for Baby Teeth to Fall Out
Usually, kids get braces between the ages of 10 and 14. However, not all kids have lost their baby teeth by then. Even so, you shouldn’t wait to bring your child to the orthodontist until they are a pre-teen. The optimal time to bring them is around 7 or 8. Yes, they still have some baby teeth at this stage, but the orthodontist will want to start examining their bite and creating a treatment plan for later on.
Starting baseline x-rays and a conversation about your child’s teeth early on is critical. Most plans involve a two-phase approach anyway. The first part is more of a diagnostic and monitoring approach throughout this transitional phase. The orthodontist can take a look at the jawbone growth to ensure both uppers and lowers are aligning correctly. Issues with jawbone growth should be corrected sooner rather than later, so in this case, waiting till all the adult teeth come in could be detrimental in the long run.
This first phase can ensure that there is the proper amount of space in the mouth to accommodate the incoming adult teeth. The goal here is that when they actually do come in, they have room to settle into the proper position. Then, when phase two comes along, it’s a simpler, shorter-term process because the jawbones are already aligned.
Should Baby Teeth be Removed?
This can be answered by your child’s orthodontist, as each individual is different. If certain baby teeth are taking an abnormally long time to fall out on their own, this can create orthodontic issues. The doctor may suggest removing the primary teeth in question in order to make way for the normal eruption and development of the adult teeth. There are many reasons why baby teeth – and even permanent teeth for that matter – must be removed: overcrowding, protrusion and underbite or overbite correction.
Got more questions about baby teeth and braces? Give us a call at one of our five locations or fill out our online form for more information. Remember, although treatment may not begin right at seven years old, Drs. Savage, Sabol & Visser may want to monitor your child’s dental development. Early detection greatly reduces the need for removal of permanent teeth!
