Choosing the Right Braces for Kids

Braces for kids play a crucial role in helping children develop healthy and well-aligned smiles. With so many options available today, it can be challenging for parents to decide which style best fits their child. With the help of an orthodontist, parents can learn which braces are best suited to their child’s needs.

What to consider when choosing braces for kids

Parents need to consider multiple factors when deciding on braces for kids. The child’s age, stage of development, and particular orthodontic issues will weigh heavily in the decision. The child’s lifestyle and level of responsibility are also important to consider. Logistics like cost and insurance coverage are also a factor. It is also important to consider a child’s personal preferences because they will be the ones who have to wear them.

Types of braces

There used to be only one choice of braces for kids. But technology is ever-evolving, and now there are several attractive options.The type of braces a patient receives will depend entirely on their oral health needs, level of responsibility, and what their smile needs. 

Traditional metal braces

Most people are familiar with these durable, sturdy, and effective braces. They consist of metal brackets bonded to each tooth and an archwire. Each bracket connects to the archwire with a rubber band. They effectively use pressure to move teeth gradually into the desired position. Children can choose the color of rubber bands used to attach the brackets to the archwire. In addition, traditional braces tend to be the most cost-effective option.

Traditional braces require regular appointments (about every 4 to 6 weeks) for adjustments and changing the rubber bands. They are not as discreet as other options, but some orthodontists offer mini braces that are more discreet. However, these mini braces tend to be more expensive than traditional braces. There will be some discomfort when the braces are first placed and after adjustments. Also, the child must alter their eating habits and dental hygiene practices.

Self-litigating braces

This newer style of braces works much like traditional braces, with one key difference. Instead of rubber bands, metal clips hold the archwire in place, which leads to fewer appointments. They are still as durable as traditional braces but move teeth significantly faster and with less friction. Food restrictions and changes to dental hygiene still apply to this style of braces, and they tend to be more expensive than the traditional style.

Ceramic braces

These are like traditional braces; however, they use tooth-colored ceramic brackets instead of metal. The rubber bands and archwire can also be clear. The chief advantage of ceramic braces is that they blend in with the teeth and are less noticeable.

The same adjustments to dental hygiene and eating habits apply. Also, the clear rubber bands used for ceramic braces can become discolored if a child consumes stained food or beverages. They can be more expensive, but that cost can be mitigated by having ceramic braces on the front visible teeth and metal for the rest. Ceramic brackets are a bit larger and may be uncomfortable for some children. Additionally, they are not as sturdy and can break off more easily than other styles.

What about clear aligners?

Though they are not braces, clear aligners are a newer teeth straighteing solution parents may be curious about. Clear aligners move teeth through a series of clear, custom-made trays. This method is attractive because it is removable, and the aligners are barely noticeable. This method does not require the same eating and dental hygiene adjustments.

However, clear aligners are not generally effective for severe malocclusions. They also require a certain level of maturity, as the child must remember to wear them and keep track of them. Therefore, they may not be a practical solution for young children. Whereas braces are usually easier for a child to maintain since they remain in the mouth the entire treatment time.

What is right for your child?

Though this overview provides a snapshot of your options, the best way to learn what is likely to work for your child is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. During the appointment, we can review the child's oral health, answer any questions, and determine the most effective treatment option for your child.

Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry provides a range of orthodontic treatments to help children build strong and healthy smiles. Call our team today to learn more about braces for kids.

Request an appointment here: https://www.orthodonticprecision.com or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at (703) 391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.

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