BEST AGE TO GET BRACES
The best age for braces is decided by the child. This is due to the fact that everyone grows at a different rate; some children will reach puberty faster and earlier than others.
Even so, as a general rule, your children should consider getting braces between the ages of 9 and 14. This is usually before they’ve reached puberty. If they’ve already gone through it, it will be more difficult to adjust their jaw and/or teeth because they’ve settled into their post-puberty positions.
TYPES OF BRACES
You may be familiar with metal bracket braces, which were once the only option. However, there are many options available today to make orthodontic treatment more personalized.
In addition to metal braces, ceramic braces and Invisalign are available. Continue reading to learn more about each type.
CERAMIC BRACES
Ceramic braces resemble metal braces but are less noticeable. Because the ceramic is either clear or tooth-colored, you won’t notice them as much. This makes them ideal for children who are self-conscious about their teeth and do not want to draw attention to them while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
These are more expensive than metal bracket braces, and they move teeth more slowly. They’re also less long-lasting.
INVISALIGN
Invisalign utilizes clear retainer trays that are made specifically for the patient. Because they’re completely clear and mold to the teeth, no one will be able to tell you have the retainers on, even if they look closely.
You can take the retainers out whenever you wish, which gives you more flexibility on the foods and drinks you can ingest.
However, this is the most expensive type of braces. Also, because the retainers aren’t cemented on like with the other 2 types, they can easily be lost or thrown away. Depending on the age of your children and how responsible they are, this may be a poor choice for them.
INTERCEPTIVE ORTHODONTICS
Today, many dental professionals practice interceptive orthodontics. This means they may not necessarily use braces on your kids while they’re young. Instead, they turn to other treatment methods, as your children will have most of their baby teeth still.
Once they’ve grown a bit and have a set of mainly adult teeth, then the orthodontist will start the next phase of treatment. In most cases, this will involve braces.
Because the orthodontist’s addressed your kids’ dental issues early on, this means that when they actually get braces, it’ll be for a much shorter time than normal. As a result, your children won’t have to go through as much discomfort. It’ll also make dental correction easier.
SIGNS THAT YOUR CHILDREN MAY REQUIRE BRACES OR OTHER ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
Crooked or gapped teeth are one of the most obvious signs that your children may require braces. However, these issues may not necessitate the use of braces.
Some key signs they may need orthodontic treatment include:
Trouble breathing (most noticeably, mouth breathing)
- Snoring when sleeping
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Difficulty eating
- Issues with speech
Crowded teeth - Misaligned bites
- Jaws and teeth that are visibly out of proportion
In an earlier section, we mentioned that you should take your kids to the dentist and/or orthodontist around the age of 7. But if you notice any of the above problems before that age, feel free to schedule an appointment. The earlier you address dental issues, the better, as it’ll be simpler to correct.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
Now that you know there is no single best age for braces, the most important thing you can do for your children is to have regular exams. Some dental problems, if detected early enough, can be corrected without the use of braces.
Are you ready to take charge of your children’s orthodontic issues? Then make an appointment with us right away!