About 4 million teens in North America have braces. Today, braces are almost a rite of passage. Some may even anticipate getting them.
However, as exciting an experience as it may be for the kids, parents are often wary of medical changes and may have a lot of questions about braces for kids. Are braces with metal brackets a better option to straighten teeth or are aligners the future for painless orthodontics?
In this article, we will answer any questions you may have about braces for your kids.
Does my child need braces?
Braces are straightener devices that put pressure on the teeth and help move the teeth to new and desired positions in gradual phases. Your dentist may offer braces as a treatment option if your kid has crooked teeth or other alignment problems.
Braces fix alignment issues of varying degrees and types including:
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty in biting or chewing food
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger-sucking
- Overcrowded front and back teeth
- Jaws that protrude or recede
- Teeth that do not meet normally
- Disproportionate jaw (bigger or smaller jaw)
Different types of braces available for kids
Since braces are much more widely accepted today than they were 30 years ago, there are many different types of braces each suited for a specific type of dental alignment problem.
To make an informed decision on which type would be suited for your child and his or her needs, you should consult a dentist.
Some of the various types of braces available for kids are as follows:
Traditional metal braces
Traditional braces are the standard orthodontic treatment option for any child’s teeth.
As the name suggests, they are made up of metal components. Each tooth is reinforced with a bracket through which metal wires and rubber bands are fastened to help keep the structure in place and push the teeth into their correct positions.
Since they are made up of metal parts, they are diverse in function and effective in fixing a wide range of alignment issues both in primary as well as permanent teeth.
Braces with wires are also typically the most affordable orthodontic option available.
Lingual braces
Much like the traditional metal braces, the metal brackets and wires of lingual braces attach to the surface of the teeth. The only difference is that the wire components are placed on the inside of the teeth instead of the outside.
Due to their placement behind the teeth, they are exceptionally difficult to spot, making them excellent options for kids who are self-conscious about their smiles.
Additionally, any staining around the braces due to poor hygiene will be covered up on the back of the teeth.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces are similar to conventional metal braces but are less noticeable because of the materials these braces use. The brackets are made up of tooth-colored material that can be color-matched to the natural shade of your teeth.
The brackets are connected with metal, making them an aesthetically superior option. However, they may be pricier than their metal counterparts.
Self-ligating braces
Instead of using rubber bands that secure the archwire to help move the teeth in their desired positions, the self-ligating braces consist of a built-in mechanism in the brackets that holds the archwire in place.
People who opt for self-ligating braces may have faster and shorter orthodontic appointments. Your child may also feel less discomfort with these braces.
Removable braces
Invisible braces are all the rage these days not only because of their discreet appearance but also because of their removable appeal. Kids as young as 11 can receive removable braces.
These braces, also known as clear aligners fit over the teeth to enclose them completely. They help gradually shift the teeth to their new positions and do not rely on any uncomfortable metal components to keep them in place.
However, one must wear them for a minimum of 20 to 22 hours for them to work optimally. The aligner trays should also be replaced every 2 weeks with a new tray to reflect the new positions of the teeth.
How long do kids need braces for?
How long kids need to wear braces depends on the dental alignment problem the dentist is trying to correct. The average time for braces to work is about 2 years.
After the two years are complete, the child might need to wear a custom-molded retainer – a small, plastic device that resembles a mouthguard.
The retainer helps keep the teeth into place and prevents them from relapsing to their original places.
Kids and teens may be required to wear retainers for years depending on the severity of their original misaligned teeth.
Preparing for orthodontic treatment
During the first appointment, the dentist or orthodontist may examine your child’s teeth, bite, and jaws to gain an understanding of the complexity of their condition. They may ask the child questions about whether he or she faces any issues chewing or swallowing.
To confirm the alignment problem, the dentist will take X-rays of the mouth and observe the tooth positions and whether any permanent teeth are erupting.
Your child’s teeth impression will be recorded to determine the best treatment plan for your child.
You may be required to visit the orthodontist every few weeks after receiving braces to monitor the progress and tighten the wires or replace the removable braces if needed.
How to take care of braces for kids
Getting braces is a big deal for your child and their teeth. Since their teeth are not adapted to having metal on them, proper dental care is crucial to keep them healthy and clean.
Your dentist will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your child’s braces and keep their teeth clean.
Food can easily get stuck in the tight nooks and crannies between the wires and teeth. Therefore, you must remind your kid to brush and floss daily to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Sticky or gummy foods like gum, popcorn, or soda should be avoided for kids with braces as they can increase the risk of tooth decay.
Kids should thoroughly rinse their mouths with water after a meal to prevent food from lodging into the brackets.
Removable aligners should be cleaned thoroughly with plain water and a soft cloth. Avoid using warm water and soap to wash the aligners. Kids should also remove their aligners during meals and brushing.
See an orthodontist regularly for dental examinations and professional teeth cleaning. If you notice a stray or loose wire or if your child has misplaced their removable aligner, you should contact the dentist immediately.
See an orthodontist
We must acknowledge how smiles change lives. A straighter smile can be a confidence booster which is why you should consider getting braces for your child if their teeth aren’t properly aligned.
Visit the orthodontist to learn about which treatment options are best for your child. If you’re considering braces for your kid, you can also discuss if dental insurance can cover the overhead costs of the treatment.
FAQs
What are the benefits of children and teens getting braces?
Braces for children can improve oral health by fixing overcrowding issues which can make it difficult to clean the teeth properly. Gum disease and tooth decay can be prevented by correcting bite problems.
What is the right age for braces for my child?
There is no right age when your child can get braces. However, the American Academy of Orthodontists recommends children see an orthodontist for the first time around age seven for a braces evaluation.
