Have you been wondering about when to get braces for your child? Why are my child’s teeth crooked? It is a common question that parents ask. The truth is, early evaluation can help improve your child’s teeth and jaw development. The American Association of Orthodontists advises that a child should get their first orthodontic screening by age 7, even if they have not lost all their baby teeth.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluation Matters
By visiting an orthodontist in Glendale early, problems can be noticed before they even arise. Getting teeth and jaws checked early on allows your dentist to monitor their growth as they mature. Unless treatment is urgently required, an orthodontist can advise parents about the best time to commence braces or aligner therapy.
Starting early doesn’t always mean getting braces right away. Sometimes a “watch and wait” approach is best until it is time to treat.
How a Glendale Orthodontist Determines the Right Time for Braces
A Glendale Orthodontist near you will examine your child’s teeth alignment, bite, and jaw position during their first appointment. Most kids start getting braces between the ages of 9 and 14. The majority of their baby teeth will be gone, and they will still have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth.
At this point, appliances may be used to guide teeth into position as the growth of the jaw continues. We want to help you get a healthy bite and a confident smile while preventing complications such as crowding or misalignment.
Comparing Clear Aligners and Traditional Braces for Kids
The variety of orthodontic options available for children these days is increasing. Comparing clear aligners and regular braces will help you know which one is the better option for your child’s lifestyle.
Old metal braces are strong and can help hard cases. They use metal brackets and wires to move teeth precisely.
The clear aligners are removable and almost invisible, so they are a great option for children who are responsible enough to wear them.
Your orthodontist will help decide on what option is best for your child’s smile goals and routine.
Fun and Functional: The Benefits of WildSmiles Braces for Children
WildSmiles braces for children offer the added benefit of fun on top of functionality for kids who like personalization. With the star, heart, football, and other brackets on the braces, children will feel more confident as they wear them.
In addition to being visually appealing, WildSmiles braces are just as effective as more traditional-looking braces. They enable children to embrace a healthy alignment while still expressing themselves.
Importance of Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment
Maintaining oral hygiene with orthodontic appliances is essential. Brush after every meal and floss around brackets and wires to prevent plaque, cavities, and white spots after braces are removed.
To make hygiene easier, orthodontists often suggest
- Using a water flosser for hard-to-reach areas.
- Choosing orthodontic-friendly toothbrushes.
- Rinse with fluoride mouthwash.
Simple everyday habits go a long way towards keeping your child’s smile bright and healthy.
Choosing Clear Trays vs. Metal Braces for Teens
When children move towards adolescence, the argument between metal braces and clear trays gets more and more serious. Aligners or clear trays, are a trend among teens who are conscious of their image, and they provide a great deal of flexibility. A person having severe alignment problems, however, might be better off with metal braces.
Either option gets the same result. The important thing is to match the type of treatment with what you feel your teen will be comfortable with, can take responsibility for, and what he/she will need orthodontically.
Encouraging Compliance with Pediatric Aligner Therapy
Aligners are of no use if they are not worn regularly. This is the reason why compliance tips in the case of pediatric aligner therapy are very important. Parents may contribute by planning reminders, giving prizes for progress, and motivating their children to wear aligners for at least 20–22 hours each day.
When children adhere to their treatment plan, the results will come quicker and more efficiently, making the process nice and motivating.
Give Your Child the Gift of a Confident Smile!
With appropriate orthodontic care at the right age, your child’s confidence and oral health can have a lifelong difference. Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and book an appointment at The Tickled Tooth to discover the best options for your child’s smile journey.
FAQs
What is a good age for a child to get braces?
Many kids get orthodontic treatment between ages 9 and 14, while an early checkup by age 7 helps detect problems sooner.
How long does orthodontic treatment for kids usually last?
Treatment for children lasts 18 to 24 months, a period that varies according to the dental needs and habits of the child.
Can my child choose between clear aligners and metal braces?
Clear aligners delt very well with moderately severe cases. Metal braces suit better in complex circumstances. The orthodontist will recommend the right option.
How would you help maintain good oral hygiene with braces?
They should brush their teeth after each meal with a mouthwatering taste to deep clean them and avoid plaque.
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