7 Hidden Signs Your Child Needs an Orthodontist
It is not just about crooked teeth.
Most parents wait for “snaggle teeth” before calling an orthodontist.
But as a specialist in craniofacial growth, I am looking for something deeper. I am looking at the function of the machine. Often, the teeth are straight, but the underlying architecture is failing.
Here are 7 functional signs that warrant an immediate exam (age 7+).
1. Mouth Breathing
If your child watches TV with their mouth open or snores at night, their upper jaw (maxilla) may be too narrow. A narrow palate restricts the nasal floor. Expanding the palate doesn’t just straighten teeth; it can open the airway.
2. Difficulty Chewing
Does your child chew on the sides? Do they avoid steak or bagels? This often indicates a Crossbite (top teeth fitting inside bottom teeth) or an open bite, making efficient chewing mechanically impossible.
3. Early or Late Baby Tooth Loss
- Too Early: If baby teeth rot or fall out prematurely due to crowding, the permanent teeth lose their guide and drift.
- Too Late: If baby teeth act like concrete and refuse to fall out, the permanent teeth may be impacted (stuck in the bone).
4. Cheek Biting
If your child constantly bites the inside of their cheek, their dental arches are likely misaligned. The upper arch should act like a “lid” over the lower box. If the lid is too small, the soft tissue gets caught in the gears.
5. Speech Impediments
A lisp or difficulty pronouncing “S” or “T” sounds can be caused by an Open Bite (front teeth don’t touch), forcing the tongue to thrust forward to seal the gap for sound. Speech therapy is often ineffective until the mechanical obstacle is removed.
6. Protruding Teeth
“Buck teeth” are not just cosmetic; they are vulnerable. Protruding upper incisors are the #1 tooth most likely to be knocked out or fractured during play or sports. Retracting them is a safety measure.
7. The “Clicking” Jaw
Ideally, the jaw joint (TMJ) should be silent. If you hear popping or clicking when your child eats, the disc inside the joint may be slipping. Early management can prevent chronic pain later in life.
The “Monstagrin” Safety Net
If you see any of these signs, don’t guess. Bring them in. Through our Monstagrin Club, we monitor growth for free. We might tell you “everything is fine,” or we might catch a developmental issue while it is still easy to fix.
"Engineering is the method. Confidence is the outcome."
Ready to clarify your confidence?
The path to a principled smile begins with a conversation. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Updike today.