What should I do if my child has protruding front teeth?

In general, children developing protruding front teeth (buck teeth) is usually caused by factors such as genetics, bad habits, dietary habits, calcium deficiency, and allergic rhinitis. Treatments may include wearing orthodontic appliances, maxillary horizontal osteotomy, traditional dental orthodontics, or medication. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Genetics

Tooth development is influenced by genetic factors. If one or both parents have protruding front teeth, the trait may be passed on to their child. Treatment can be carried out at a reputable hospital under the guidance of a professional dentist, typically involving the use of orthodontic appliances. This method applies moderate external force to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment through small, controlled movements. The typical reference cost for orthodontic appliance treatment is 5,000–6,000 yuan per course, with visible improvement usually seen within 1–2 years. Mild pain or discomfort may occur during treatment.

2. Bad Habits

If children have habits such as finger-sucking, biting the lower lip, or tongue-thrusting, prolonged forward pressure on the teeth can lead to abnormal jaw development, excessive overjet of the upper and lower front teeth, and ultimately buck teeth. Parents should help correct these habits promptly. Under medical guidance, maxillary horizontal osteotomy may be performed, which involves repositioning the upper jawbone or dental segments to improve tooth alignment. The typical reference cost for this surgery is 10,000–30,000 yuan per procedure, with noticeable improvement generally appearing within 2–3 months. However, side effects such as bleeding or swelling may occur.

3. Dietary Habits

If children consistently eat overly soft foods, normal development of the teeth and oral structures may not be adequately stimulated. Adjusting dietary habits can help—encourage consumption of foods rich in calcium, phosphorus, and other essential minerals, such as tofu and milk. Traditional orthodontic treatment, guided by a dentist, may also be used. This involves using a combination of metal braces and brackets, applying wire tension to gradually move teeth into correct positions. The typical reference cost for traditional orthodontics ranges from 5,000 to 10,000 yuan per course, with improvement usually visible after 2–3 years. Possible side effects include mouth ulcers and difficulty chewing.

4. Calcium Deficiency

Picky eating in children may lead to calcium deficiency, which can impair normal tooth development, resulting in a narrowed upper dental arch and protrusion of the upper teeth, eventually forming buck teeth. Under medical supervision, supplements such as pediatric calcium carbonate D3 granules, calcium lactate granules, or calcium gluconate oral solution may be used to correct the deficiency.

5. Allergic Rhinitis

Allergies to pollen can trigger allergic rhinitis, which may cause nasal congestion. To breathe properly, children may resort to chronic mouth breathing. Long-term mouth breathing can lead to abnormal development of facial bones and muscles, including excessive forward growth of the upper jaw, ultimately causing buck teeth. Symptoms may include nasal itching, frequent sneezing, and watery nasal discharge. Under a doctor’s advice, medications such as Danxi Yupingfeng granules, loratadine granules, or Biyuan Tongqiao granules may be used for treatment.

In daily life, it's important to cultivate good oral habits, avoid behaviors like finger-sucking or lip-biting, ensure balanced nutrition—especially adequate calcium intake—and adjust dietary habits by including appropriately firm foods to stimulate oral development. Prompt treatment of allergic rhinitis and minimizing mouth breathing can help maintain normal development of teeth and facial structure.