🦷Braces: A Guide to Orthodontic Treatment for Children
Understanding braces, when your child might need them, and how to care for them
What Are Braces?
Braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten teeth and correct bite problems. They work by applying continuous pressure over time to slowly move teeth into the desired position. Braces are commonly used during childhood and teenage years when the jaw is still growing and teeth are more easily moved.
Modern braces come in various types, from traditional metal braces to ceramic braces and clear aligners. The type chosen depends on your child's specific needs, age, and preferences.
🔍When Are Braces Needed?
Orthodontists typically recommend braces for various dental issues. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluation allows detection of problems that may benefit from early intervention.
⚡Common Reasons for Braces
- •Crowded or overlapping teeth
- •Gaps between teeth
- •Overbite (upper teeth protrude)
- •Underbite (lower teeth protrude)
- •Crossbite (upper and lower teeth don't align)
- •Misaligned jaw position
- •Difficulties with chewing or biting
⏰Timing of Treatment
- ✓Age 7: First orthodontic evaluation recommended
- ✓Ages 9-14: Most common time for braces
- ✓Teen years: Ideal time while jaw is still growing
- ✓Adults: Can still get braces, but treatment may take longer
Types of Braces
🔧Traditional Metal Braces
Most common and most affordable option. Made of high-grade stainless steel brackets and wires.
- • Most visible type
- • Most effective for complex cases
- • Often least expensive
- • Can be customized with colored bands
💎Ceramic Braces
Clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend with teeth. Less noticeable than metal braces.
- • More aesthetically pleasing
- • Slightly more expensive
- • May require more care
- • Good for older children and teens
👁️Clear Aligners
Removable, clear plastic trays (like Invisalign) that gradually move teeth.
- • Nearly invisible
- • Removable for eating and cleaning
- • Require discipline to wear 20-22 hours/day
- • Best for mild to moderate cases
🔗Lingual Braces
Braces attached to the back (tongue side) of teeth, making them invisible from the front.
- • Completely hidden
- • Most expensive option
- • May affect speech initially
- • More difficult to clean
📅What to Expect During Treatment
1. Initial Consultation
Comprehensive exam, X-rays, and impressions. Discussion of treatment options and timeline.
2. Getting Braces On
Typically takes 1-2 hours. Brackets are bonded to teeth, wires are inserted. Some discomfort is normal initially.
3. Regular Adjustments
Visits every 4-8 weeks to tighten wires and check progress. Each visit may cause mild soreness for a few days.
4. Treatment Duration
Typically 18-24 months, but varies depending on complexity. Some cases may take longer.
Caring for Braces
🪥Oral Hygiene
- ✓Brush after every meal: Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for at least 2 minutes, paying special attention to areas around brackets.
- ✓Floss daily: Use special floss threaders or water flossers designed for braces to clean between teeth and under wires.
- ✓Use fluoride mouthwash: Helps prevent cavities and strengthen enamel around brackets.
- ✓Regular dental cleanings: Continue seeing your dentist every 6 months for cleanings.
🚫Foods to Avoid
- •Hard foods: Ice, nuts, hard candies, hard pretzels, corn on the cob
- •Sticky foods: Gum, caramel, taffy, chewy candies
- •Foods that require biting: Whole apples (cut into pieces), raw carrots (steam or cut), pizza crust, bagels
- •Sugary foods: Limit to prevent cavities. Brush immediately after consuming.
💊Managing Discomfort
Some discomfort is normal, especially after braces are first put on or after adjustments. Here's how to help:
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) as directed
- Eat soft foods for the first few days after adjustments
- Apply orthodontic wax to brackets that are rubbing against cheeks or lips
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe irritated gums
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique
- Most discomfort subsides within 3-5 days
❓Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How long will my child need braces?
Most children wear braces for 18-24 months, but the duration depends on the complexity of the case, how well they follow instructions, and their body's response to treatment. Some cases may take longer, while simpler cases may be completed faster.
Do braces hurt?
There is some discomfort, especially during the first few days after braces are put on and after each adjustment. However, most children adjust quickly. The discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and eating soft foods. Severe pain is uncommon and should be reported to your orthodontist.
Can my child still play sports with braces?
Yes! However, it's important to wear a mouthguard during contact sports and any activity where there's a risk of facial injury. Your orthodontist can provide a custom-fitted mouthguard that works with braces. This protects both the braces and the mouth from injury.
What if a bracket comes loose or a wire breaks?
Call your orthodontist immediately. In the meantime, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that are poking the mouth. Don't try to fix it yourself. If a wire is poking, you can carefully clip it with clean nail clippers, but contact your orthodontist for proper repair.
How much do braces cost?
Costs vary widely depending on the type of braces, length of treatment, and geographic location. Traditional metal braces typically range from $3,000-$7,000. Many orthodontists offer payment plans, and some dental insurance plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment. Check with your insurance provider about coverage.