In the Know for You to Know

Lot’s of children want braces so you’ll hear this all the time, When can I get braces? My friend has braces, I want braces! Then there are other children (like mine) who are worried about how braces look and feel.

Braces have come a long way in the last couple of years. They can be very cosmetic and not easily seen. There’s also different materials and ways to adhere the brackets to the teeth.

Why Braces?

Sometimes it’s not because teeth don’t grow in straight, it’s the underlying reason why the teeth didn’t come in straight.

It’s possible that the upper and lower jaws might not be aligned. If the upper jaw is bigger than the lower jaw, that’s called an overbite. When the lower jaw is bigger than the upper jaw, that’s an underbite.

Based on your child’s age as well as their teeth development and jaw positions, that’s when it’s time to see the Orthodontist.

How Long Does My Child Have Braces?

Children have braces for different amounts of time depending on the reason they need braces.

What’s important to remember is that your child needs to wear their retainer after they finish their braces. Used to be retainers were only for 3 months after finishing braces. Not any more.

Your orthodontist will go over all of this with you as your child finishes the active part of their braces. This is important because the retainer helps keep their teeth in the position you just went through the braces for.

Types Of Braces

Traditional Metal Braces

These are the most worn style of braces by school-age children, tweens and teens. They are metal brackets medically bonded to the front of the teeth with the wires passing through the bracket’s slots and held in place with elastic bands (in a wide choice of colors).

Ceramic Braces

Are similar to metal braces but the brackets are a tooth colored or clear ceramic material similar in color to teeth. These brackets can be more fragile than the metal and need more tlc.

Lingual Braces

These braces also similar to metal braces however the brackets are placed on the backs of the teeth, this way they are not seen. Being on the backs of the teeth can make brushing and flossing time longer and your child may need more of your help.

Self-Ligating Braces

Are very much like metal braces, however instead of the rubber elastics, there is a special clip which holds the wire in place.

Clear Aligners

These are a specific sequence of clear custom made trays which progressively move teeth into the desired position. Each aligner is worn for about 2 weeks before changing to the next one. Clear aligners are not for everyone.

Which Style Of Braces Is Right For My Child?

This is a conversation you’ll have with your Orthodontist because which type of braces is right for your child depends on a couple of things like their individual needs, your child’s age and your preference.

With a range of options from metal to ceramic to lingual braces or clear aligners there is no shortage of choices to help your child have that beautiful and healthy smile.

Does your child have braces? Are they about to start braces? Did you have braces as a child or want them now as an adult? Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or Message us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

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