Children's braces - before and after
If your child has tooth alignment issues it's best to get them addressed between the ages of 10 to 14. Some children can get braces younger: it all depends on whether or not the baby teeth have fallen out and the adult teeth have come in. The jawbone also must be developed enough for braces to work.
If your dentist recommends braces, you child’s future appearance won't be the only major concern: Teeth that aren't straight enough can make brushing and flossing unnecessarily difficult. If some surfaces are too hard to brush or floss between, then not only is you child at a greater risk of cavities and gum disease, but he or she also is less likely to develop and stick with good dental-hygiene habits.
What kinds of braces are best for children?
The best type of braces depends upon a number of factors:
If your dentist recommends braces, you child’s future appearance won't be the only major concern: Teeth that aren't straight enough can make brushing and flossing unnecessarily difficult. If some surfaces are too hard to brush or floss between, then not only is you child at a greater risk of cavities and gum disease, but he or she also is less likely to develop and stick with good dental-hygiene habits.
What kinds of braces are best for children?
The best type of braces depends upon a number of factors:
- How crooked the teeth are. Traditional braces are more effective than Invisalign, in most cases.
- Your family's budget. It's better to use traditional braces if your budget is limited than it is to let your child go without braces if his or her teeth are crooked.
- Whether or which specific areas of your child's mouth require attention. Partial braces are an option when only a few teeth need straightening.
- Your child's sensitivity. Mini-braces could be an option for children who find traditional braces too hard to wear.
- The speed at which treatment needs to take place. Self-ligating braces are the fastest.
- Whether your child plays sports. Invisalign braces are very durable, and so a set of clear braces is a good option for rough-and-tumble children.
- Your child's maturity level. Some braces require more care and attention than others. For one thing, you need to know that your child will keep the braces in his or her mouth.
When is a child too old to get braces?
Your children are never too old to get braces. If you weren't able to get braces for your child in the optimal window of about 10-14, we understand and we can still help. The same options will remain open to your older child.
How long do braces take to straighten a child’s teeth?
It depends on the type of braces your child needs. The fastest-working braces take about one year. The slowest braces can take up to 24 months. Throughout that period your child will need multiple check-ups and adjustments to ensure optimal results.
If that sounds like a long time, keep in mind what’s happening: we’re gently repositioning bones (teeth) that are anchored in other bone (the mandible and maxilla, or jawbones).
Do children’s braces hurt?
Braces do not hurt. The entire process should be painless for your child.
Does your child need braces?
If your child's teeth are misaligned then there is a good chance he or she need braces. The only way to tell is to make an appointment. Our friendly and experienced orthodontists will fully evaluate your child's mouth and discuss treatment options with you. Just call us at (909) 981-4111 to set up an appointment at any of our 4 convenient locations: Upland, Chino, Rancho Cucamonga, and Wildomar.