Braces for Kids
Austin, TX – Braces are often considered a rite of passage. When you picture your childhood, do you remember having a mouth full of metal? Braces have an important job – ensuring your child’s bite is aligned so that the smile can work properly. But they’ll also provide a beautifully straight smile, helping your child greet the world confidently.
Children should have their first orthodontic consultation around the age of seven. At this appointment, the orthodontist will examine how the smile is taking shape, and make recommendations for future treatment, if needed.
Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children
If your child requires orthodontic treatment, there are many options today. They include:
Traditional Metal Braces
This is what most people think of when they think of braces, but today’s braces are more high tech than ever before. They are made of high-quality stainless steel and are sleeker and less noticeable. Brackets will be attached to each tooth, and then wires are threaded through each bracket. The wires exert the pressure needed to guide the teeth to their new locations.
Metal Braces Benefits:
- Most cost-effective option
- Durable and strong
- Can effectively treat every type of malocclusions
Metal Braces Drawbacks:
- Most noticeable of all treatment options
- Metal brackets and wires can cause discomfort
Ceramic or Clear Braces
Ceramic braces work just like metal braces; however, the brackets are made from tooth-colored materials. This allows them to blend in better with the smile.
Ceramic Braces Benefits:
- Less conspicuous than metal braces
- Ceramic brackets are stain resistant
- Can treat a variety of malocclusions
Ceramic Braces Drawbacks:
- Can be more expensive than metal braces
- Brackets aren’t as strong as metal and may break
Invisalign
Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that are custom made for every patient. Each aligner set is calibrated to achieve a certain tooth movement – all the patient has to do is follow proper aligner wear to achieve their ideal smile. The aligners are removable, which makes it easier to take care of the smile. This also means patients don’t need to adjust their diets because the aligners are removed before eating.
Invisalign Benefits:
- Clear so they are discrete
- Removable for ease of caring for smile
- No dietary restrictions
Invisalign Drawbacks:
- Must be responsible – compliance is crucial to success
- Not ideal for every patient
- May sometimes be more expensive
When it comes to choosing the right braces option for your child, it’s best to consult with an experienced orthodontist. Orthodontic treatment isn’t one size fits all, but your orthodontist can walk you through the options and which may be best for your child.
To schedule a complimentary consultation, call Pure Smiles Orthodontics today at 512-215-2520.