Braces for Children
Once your child reaches the age of 10, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment. As children’s teeth are still developing at this time in their lives, they are easier to move. That said, children’s orthodontic treatment is often shorter than treatment for adults.
If you’re searching for professional children’s braces treatment in Glen Allen, VA, West End Orthodontics is the name you can trust. From our welcoming office to our gentle orthodontic procedures, there are several reasons to choose us. Call us today to make an appointment!
Children Braces Treatment in Glen Allen, VA
Want to learn more about braces for children? Want to work with the top orthodontist in the area? If so, contact West End Orthodontics today! From our exceptional services to our experienced team, we’re here for your orthodontic needs. In addition, we take pride in our welcoming and accommodating office. If your child experiences anxiety when going to the dentist or orthodontist, we have tools and techniques to keep them comfortable.
Call West End Orthodontics today to learn more about our orthodontic solutions!
What Are Child Braces?
Braces for kids are just like braces for adults. They use the same materials and process. However, one key difference involves the state of teeth at this age. Kids’ teeth are still developing, meaning they’re easier to move. With adults, their bones are tougher and denser, so teeth take longer to move to the proper position. Children’s braces are typically taken off much sooner than adult braces.
How Child Braces Work
Children’s braces work based on their type. If you shoot for traditional braces, they move teeth with the help of metal brackets, wires, and bands. The brackets are attached to teeth, wires are connected to those brackets, and the steel bands hold everything together. The constant pressure created by these wires is the action that moves teeth.
Different Types of Child Braces
If you’re interested in getting braces for your child, it’s important to consider the different types.
Here are the different variations of braces for children:
TRADITIONAL BRACES
As we mentioned, this type works with metal brackets, wires, and bands. Orthodontists use a special dental glue to attach brackets to teeth. Then, powerful wires are connected to those brackets, followed by bands to hold the wires in place. Throughout the treatment plan, these wires are either tightened or changed out.
CERAMIC BRACES
These work just like the standard type, but the brackets are made of ceramic rather than metal. The ceramic is typically colored to match your teeth, making the device less noticeable.
CLEAR ALIGNERS
Clear aligners are taking the orthodontic industry by storm! Instead of using metal brackets and wires to move teeth, clear aligners feature a clear plastic tray. These trays must be removed before brushing, flossing, eating, and drinking anything other than water. Clear aligners slowly add pressure to teeth until they reach their desired position.
Benefits of Braces for Kids
Keep reading to learn the advantages of children’s braces:
STRAIGHT TEETH
Of course, straight teeth is the leading benefit to consider. Even if your child has a severely crooked smile, braces can help.
IMPROVED DENTAL HEALTH
When teeth are misaligned, this may create more nooks and crannies inside your mouth. Unfortunately, these areas can harbor bacteria, which could lead to dental problems. Straightening teeth can eliminate these issues, leading to improved oral health!
MORE CONFIDENCE
After orthodontic treatment, your child may be teeming with excitement and confidence. This may help them with various aspects of their life.
SHORT TREATMENT TIME
Compared to adults who get braces, children often experience a much shorter treatment time. This is because children’s teeth and jawbones are still developing, making their smiles easier to correct.
Caring for Your Braces
To find the best results with children’s braces, it’s important to care for them properly. Brushing and flossing are crucial, so make sure this is done on a daily basis. You may also consider using a Waterpik flosser to clean your mouth effectively. Furthermore, try to limit eating foods that can damage your braces. This includes hard candy, chewy candy, sticky foods, and ice.