Problems to watch for in Growing Children

Malocclusions (“bad bites”) like those illustrated below, may benefit from early diagnosis and referral to an orthodontic specialist for a full evaluation.

In addition, if you notice any of the following in your child, check with your orthodontist:

• early or late loss of baby teeth

• difficulty in chewing or biting

• mouth breathing jaws that shift or make sounds

• speech difficulties

• biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth • facial imbalance

• grinding or clenching of the teeth

Final treatment decisions should be made among the parent, child’s dentist and orthodontist.