Braces for Kids

Worried your child may need braces? Braces are used to correct malocclusion, which means your child’s teeth are growing crooked or crowded. Braces are also instrumental in correcting bad bites. This happens when your child’s lower jaw meets his upper jaw in a way that’s misaligned. Bad bites that go uncorrected may result in jaw pain and abnormal tooth wear. Your child may have problems chewing because of a bad bite, as well. Braces are an effective way of fixing problems like these.

If you suspect your child needs braces to correct problems such as these, Riverbend Orthodontics and Oral Surgery has simple and affordable solutions. Call today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dental professionals. In the meantime, enjoy our comprehensive primer that answers all your questions regarding braces for kids.

When Should My Child Get Braces?

Parents often begin noticing problems with their children’s teeth, mouth, and gums around the age of 8 years old. This is when malocclusions and bad bites usually begin to manifest. Your dental professional can learn much about your child’s oral health by performing an exam as your child’s jaw develops. Early intervention is key to ensuring permanent teeth grow straight and true. In most instances, your orthodontist will recommend waiting to begin formal treatment until baby teeth have fallen out and permanent teeth have begun growing in. This typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 13 years.

How Do I Know If My Child Needs to See an Orthodontist?

Most children don’t require orthodontic treatment to move teeth or the upper or lower jaw until they’re at least 8 to 9 years old. There are exceptions to this rule, however. If your orthodontist recommends treatment to move or reposition baby teeth, it’s to make a more suitable environment for permanent teeth to erupt. Early intervention, even to baby teeth, can help prevent further orthodontia in the future. Signs your child may need to see an orthodontist include:

• Difficulty chewing.
• Loss of baby teeth due to decay.
• Thumb-sucking beyond the age of 4.
• Open-mouthed breathing
• Crooked teeth or gaps

If you notice these signs of orthodontic problems in your young child, it’s time to make an appointment with Riverbend Orthodontics and Oral Surgery. We’ll perform a simple exam and an assessment to help diagnose early problems with teeth or gums. We may then recommend further treatment, based upon what we find.

 

What to Expect When Getting Braces for Kids?

Bringing your child in for braces may seem stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Braces are a painless option for correcting your child’s smile. Children typically wear them for one to three years, during which time the braces gently shift teeth into the desired position. The process of being fitted for braces is non-invasive and can be done in one visit to your orthodontist. It usually takes 90 minutes to two hours to complete the procedure.

To prep your child’s teeth for braces, your orthodontist will use a retractor to keep your child’s mouth comfortably open. Individual brackets will be applied to each tooth using an adhesive. Wires will then be threaded through each bracket and secured in place either with a clip or with a series of rubber ligatures. Afterward, your orthodontist will discuss how to care for your child’s teeth and braces to keep your teeth clean and cavity-free.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

The cost of braces varies according to the region and from practice to practice. The cost may be offset by contributions from your dental insurance carrier. At Riverbend Orthodontics and Oral Surgery, we’ll also work with you to make your child’s procedure as affordable as possible, including accepting lower down payments.

When it’s time for your child to receive orthodontic care, visit Riverbend Orthodontics and Oral Surgery. We’ll assess your child’s dental prognosis and let you know whether braces or aligners are recommended. Using the latest breakthroughs and technology in dental medicine, our experienced professionals will take excellent care of your entire family, including young children who are seeing the orthodontist for their first visit. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.