Children between the ages of 8-10 often sport an unattractive smile with some teeth missing and new teeth developing. This age, therefore is termed appropriately as the Ugly Duckling Stage.
Basically what happens is that the bigger permanent teeth come in first and the jaw becomes bigger at a later age, leading to issues like crowding or abnormal spacings between teeth. Usually this is self- corrected but often, there is a need to intervene early in case there is a significant malalignment or if your child has some abnormal oral habits like thumb sucking, finger biting, tongue thrusting etc.
What are all the problems your child will face due to malalignment of teeth?
- It is not only just an aesthetic problem to your child
- Difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene
- Dental caries
- Gum disease
- Makes chewing more difficult
- Speech difficulties
- Bad breath
Treatment options
There are many early intervention options available and often intervening early can reduce the need for aggressive/longer treatment durations later.
Your paediatric dentist can help identify and treat early malalignments and give your child a natural, more attractive smile! Before and during orthodontic therapy
