Convincing Children for braces can look like an impossible task. On one hand, they may be excited about the idea of perfect teeth and smile, while on the other hand, they may feel anxious about the pain and discomfort. But currently, with the advanced technology, getting braces is less painful in recent times.
The Department of orthodontics in Los Gatos comprises highly experienced dental specialists who offer customized braces for children with minimal pain and discomfort.
Orthodontic braces pave the way for more aligned permanent dentition
Orthodontic procedures like braces can correct the following flaws in children:
- Missing teeth
- Extra teeth
- Malaligned, crooked, or crowded teeth
- An overbite
- An open bite
- An underbite
- Incorrect jaw position
Malalignment of teeth can occur due to genetic predisposition or certain acquired habits like:
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Prolonged pacifier use
- Poor oral hygiene
- Poor nutrition
The ideal age for getting braces
In most cases, dentists believe the ideal age for braces and other orthodontic treatments is between 10 and 15 years of age. This is the most active stage of growth and development in children. It is attributed to the fact that the bones are flexible during this age. Appropriate teeth and jaw movements may typically require less time and effort to achieve the desired results.
Proper oral care for children with braces
The following considerations are essential to maintain good oral hygiene in children with braces:
- Brush your teeth twice daily and after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily between the teeth and braces
- Use a proxabrush to remove food and debris from between the teeth
- Use an oral irrigator to remove debris between the teeth, brackets, and wires
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage the orthodontic brackets and wires
Types of orthodontic appliances used for children
There are multiple orthodontic appliances that work wonders on children to correct dental imperfections. These include:
Fixed braces: These comprise brackets fixed to each tooth and connected with an archwire.
Fixed appliances: These include space maintainers and expanders that are usually fixed and cannot be removed.
Headgear: These are customized devices used to treat developmental irregularities.
Retainers: These devices are used in the retention phase to maintain the results achieved during the active phase. It ensures your teeth maintain a proper alignment and do not regress back to misalignment.
Closure
Your child’s smile and oral health are equally important. Ensure to take your children for a dental visit as soon as their first tooth erupts and follow up once every 6 months or at least once a year.
