Braces for kids are an effective treatment that straightens crooked teeth, improves bite issues and makes chewing easier. This results in a healthier smile that lasts a lifetime.
Kids may need braces for a variety of reasons, including crowded or overlapping teeth, an overbite or underbite, or missing or loose teeth. Addressing these issues of braces for kids can help prevent serious problems in the future.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is a popular choice for kids who need to straighten their smiles. Kids can choose between several types of orthodontic treatments, including traditional metal braces.
There are a variety of reasons that children may need to get braces, including:
Crooked teeth and misaligned bites can cause a range of problems, including crowded teeth, an underbite or crossbite (when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down), and abnormal tooth growth, like extra teeth or impacted teeth. By treating these issues early with interceptive orthodontic treatment, we can help your child achieve a healthy smile that’s functional as well as beautiful. And it may even help reduce the need for more invasive procedures later in life, such as jaw surgery.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are made of small, silver brackets that are connected by a thin wire. These wires apply pressure to the teeth and help correct misalignment issues like crooked, overlapping or crowded teeth or a bad bite (malocclusion).
Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever. They also come with the option of colored rubber bands, allowing kids to express their individuality.
While crooked teeth may seem harmless enough, they can actually cause serious oral health problems down the road. Addressing them in early childhood can prevent these problems and make treatment more cost-effective. Having straight teeth at a young age will also boost self-esteem and improve overall quality of life! This is why it’s important for children to get their orthodontics started as soon as possible.
Ceramic Braces
While metal braces are still the most common type, there are now options to make them less noticeable. Ceramic braces have tooth-colored brackets that blend in with the teeth, and they may also use clear wires.
Both types of braces work the same way, applying gentle pressure to teeth over time to help them shift into alignment. However, the brackets on ceramic braces are more fragile than those on metal braces and may be more susceptible to discoloration from darker foods or beverages like coffee and red wine.
Ceramic braces are typically more expensive than traditional metal braces and will take longer to straighten teeth, as they require more visits to the orthodontist. But for many kids, ceramic braces can be a great way to ease the stigma of getting braces and give them a healthier smile in the process!
Invisalign®
Invisalign for kids is a modern orthodontic treatment that can boost confidence and provide a healthier, more beautiful smile. However, kids may experience some discomfort while wearing the clear aligners and the treatment time may be longer than with traditional braces.
X-rays and digital impressions will be taken to determine whether or not your child is an appropriate candidate for Invisalign, so it is important to discuss these options with your orthodontist. They can also assess the severity of your child’s misalignments and other dental issues, and recommend the most effective treatment option for them.
Straight teeth are important for health and appearance, but they’re also a great way to boost your child’s self-esteem and confidence. With the right combination of effort and diligence, your child can enjoy a healthy, straight smile they’ll be proud of well into adulthood!
Clear Braces
Clear braces work similarly to traditional metal braces but remove the need for the metallic wires and brackets. This makes them the most discreet option, especially for older kids and teens who want a more subtle treatment.
However, the clear trays can be easier to stain if your child doesn’t keep them properly clean. This can lead to an extended treatment timeline and higher maintenance costs if they aren’t diligent about cleaning and replacing the trays as directed.
Both braces and clear aligners are effective at straightening teeth, correcting bite issues, and giving kids a healthy smile they can be proud of for life. Talk to your orthodontist about which option may be best for your child! We are happy to provide a comprehensive, personalized evaluation.