Recognizing a Bite Problem In Your Children

As children grow, so do their teeth and jaws. While it’s natural for teeth to shift slightly as children develop, some alignment issues, known as bite problems, may require special attention. 

At Kew Gardens Dental P.C. in Queens, New York, Bella Pinkatz, DDS, and our dedicated team know that recognizing bite problems early can prevent potential speech, eating, and even self-confidence issues. That’s why we explain everything you need to know about spotting and addressing bite problems in your children before they become bigger issues. 

What are bite problems? 

Let’s start with the basics. A “bite” refers to how your upper and lower teeth come together. Ideally, they should align neatly, allowing your teeth to function comfortably without causing wear or discomfort. Bite problems (malocclusions) occur when your teeth don’t align properly. 

The following are the most common types of bite problems: 

Overbite

Upper teeth significantly overlap lower teeth. 

Underbite

Lower teeth protrude past upper teeth.

Crossbite

Upper teeth sit inside lower teeth when your mouth is closed.

Open bite

Upper and lower teeth don’t touch when your mouth is closed, leaving a gap.

Signs your child may have a bite problem

Recognizing bite problems in your children can be challenging, especially since their mouths and jaws are still developing. However, certain signs may suggest an issue: 

Difficulty chewing or biting 

If your child struggles to chew food properly or complains about discomfort while eating, it might be a sign of a bite problem. 

Breathing through the mouth 

Children with bite issues often breathe through their mouths, especially at night. This is frequently linked to alignment issues. 

Speech difficulties

Misaligned teeth can interfere with pronunciation, causing a lisp or trouble making certain sounds. 

Frequent biting of their cheeks or tongue 

If your child accidentally bites their cheeks or tongue often, it could be due to misaligned teeth. 

Visible gaps or misalignment 

Look for gaps, overlaps, or other alignment issues when your child’s is talking or eating. A noticeable overbite, underbite, or gap is often visible. 

Causes of bite problems in children 

Understanding what causes bite problems can help you recognize issues early so you can take the right preventive steps. Bite problems in children can be the result of the following: 

Genetics 

Children often inherit bite issues from their parents. If you or your partner had braces or other orthodontic treatments, there’s a chance your child may develop similar needs. 

Thumbsucking or pacifier use

Prolonged thumbsucking or pacifier use can cause the front teeth to push forward, leading to open bites or other alignment issues. 

Teeth grinding 

Grinding, also called bruxism, can wear down teeth and change the natural alignment of your child’s bite. 

Jaw misalignment 

Some children are born with misaligned jaws, which can lead to an underbite, overbite, or other bite issues. 

When to seek treatment and what to expect 

If you suspect a bite problem, consulting with Dr. Pinkatz and our team is the best next step. Early intervention can prevent more intensive treatments later on. Consider the following: 

Pediatric dentist checkups 

Regular dental checkups help monitor your child’s development and identify potential bite issues early. 

Orthodontic evaluation

Many orthodontists recommend an initial evaluation around age 7. At this age, they can assess the need for treatments like braces or other appliances. 

Treatment options 

Common treatments for bite issues include braces, clear aligners, palate expanders, or retainers, depending on the specific problem. Treatment plans vary in length, typically from a few months to several years. 

Recognizing and addressing bite problems early can help optimize your child’s oral health. Regular checkups with our team and early orthodontic evaluations can make all the difference in preventing and managing bite problems. 

So, why wait? For a comprehensive bite evaluation for your child, call our office at 518-757-0854 or request an appointment online.