Many kids need braces by the time they reach the teen years, but did you know there are things you can do to help your child avoid this kind of dental treatment?

By helping your child develop good jaw structure, you may be able to prevent them from needing braces later. As your orthodontist in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Lehigh Acres, FL, the professionals at Orthodontics Exclusively are here to help you help your child. Below are five things you can do to help your child develop good tooth and jaw alignment from an early age.

1. Breastfeed Until Age 1 or 2

Breastfeeding is good for your child’s jaw structure. The movement of the tongue during breastfeeding helps your child’s jaw and mouth develop fully, and that can prevent the need for braces. If you breastfeed your child, consider breastfeeding them until they’re two years old to help your child’s facial features develop properly.

2. Stop Pacifier Use By Age 3

Pacifiers can be good for soothing children. The use of pacifiers can even help reduce the chances of SIDS! However, pacifiers can start to impact your child’s jaw development as they get older. To avoid a problem stop the use of pacifiers by the time your child turns three years old.

3. Stop Sucking Thumb By Age 5

If your child sucks their thumb, this too can impact how your child’s jaw and teeth develop. Stop your child from sucking their thumb by the time they turn 5 years old.

4. Take Your Child to the Dentist Starting from Age One

Your child’s dentist can help you identify problems that need to be addressed from an early age. Bringing your child to the dentist can help your child avoid more serious problems down the road. Start taking your child to the dentist from the time they’re one.

5. Get An Early Evaluation by an Orthodontist

Get an early orthodontic assessment in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Lehigh Acres, FL to find out if there’s anything else you can do to help your child avoid braces. Call Orthodontics Exclusively today to make an appointment.