Oftentimes, when the average person thinks about braces, they think about a resolution for gaps or other spaces between their teeth. However, braces are just as good of a solution for crowded teeth in children. A child with crowded teeth will generally have teeth that appear to grow on top of each other or overlap, which may impact how they view their smile, and ultimately, their self-confidence.

Learn more about which braces are a good option for your condition. 

Find Out The Cause

For the best long-term solution, it is a good idea to get to the bottom of the problem before you jump into treatment for overcrowding. 

For example, in children, this condition is often the result of their teeth growing faster than their jaw is developing, which leaves too little space for so many teeth. However, in some children, the situation has more to do with the bone structure of their jaw. In the latter, your dental provider may want to address the structural concern first to ensure that the orthodontic treatment lasts.

Be Prepared for a Wait

Keep in mind, you may see your child's overcrowded teeth as an issue and expect to receive immediate treatment. However, things may not necessarily play out in this fashion, particularly if your child is very young. 

In young children, orthodontists sometimes prefer to wait to move forward with braces until they have had some time to monitor the development and progression of the child's condition. Moving forward with treatment too swiftly can lead to only a partial correction. Just keep in mind that if the provider wants to hold off on treatment, it is for a good reason. 

Clear Aligner Trays are a Great Option

Teeth overcrowding is generally a corrective concern that requires extended treatment. For example, a person who needs braces to close a single gap between their front teeth would likely have a shorter treatment course than a person who has severe overcrowding. For this reason, given the length of wear time, it is sometimes a good idea to consider clear aligner trays as an option. 

Aligner trays are clear, which means that you can barely see them. For a child who has to undergo treatment for teeth overcrowding for an extended period or a child who is self-conscious about the appearance of their smile with braces, this option is an excellent choice.

If you have concerns about your child's teeth overcrowding, make sure you speak with an orthodontist like Reed & Sahlaney Orthodontics, LLP to learn more about your options. 

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