Braces or Orthodontic treatment for kids is a dental method focused on development. It aims to prevent and correct abnormalities in teeth, bite, and jaw. Braces must be professionally trained individuals who can identify irregularities in dental alignment and jaw disorders. Experts strongly recommend that children be taken to dental facilities for regular check-ups. The World Dental Association encourages Braces treatment for children before the age of 7.

Why choose orthodontic treatment - Braces?

Orthodontic treatment, specifically braces, is a method that helps address dental and jaw imperfections. It is particularly beneficial for patients with misaligned bites or uneven tooth growth. Here are some specific signs to look out for. If you notice these signs in your child, it is recommended to take them for a dental examination. Orthodontic treatment, including braces, is suitable for children in these cases.

• Crooked, overlapping, or crowded teeth.
• Tooth loss.
• Excessively spaced teeth.
• Reverse bite.
• Open bite.
• Misaligned or inaccurate jaw position.
• Jaw joint disorders, such as clicking or popping when chewing.

What is the Best Age To Get Braces For Kids?

In most cases, the ideal age for children to get braces and other orthodontic treatments is between 10 and 14 years old. The process of moving and aligning teeth follows a similar pattern regardless of age. However, the oral structures of adults are often more stable and more challenging to address. Therefore, to correct bite misalignment issues in adults, multiple orthodontic methods may be required, and sometimes jaw surgery may be necessary.

Types of braces available today

There are three common types of braces:

• Traditional braces, made of metal or plastic, either translucent or tooth-colored, attached to the teeth.
• Lingual braces, attached to the back surfaces of the teeth, hidden from view.
• Clear aligners, which consist of metal strips wrapped around the teeth.
• Transparent, removable trays called Invisalign aligners.

All three types utilize archwires to move the teeth into the desired positions. Clear aligners, which are transparent and removable, do not use wires and can be an option as well. Traditional braces consist of plastic brackets custom-shaped to fit snugly onto the teeth and are used in conjunction with wires to move the teeth. It's best to consult with your dentist to determine which method is most suitable for you, especially when it comes to braces for children.

>> See more: What are the signs when you first get braces - When is it abnormal?

Oral Care and Braces

Here are some specific guidelines and considerations for maintaining oral hygiene while wearing braces for kids.

• Ensure that your child brushes their teeth thoroughly after every meal. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Food particles can easily get stuck in the braces. Replace the toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed or worn. A worn-out toothbrush will not effectively clean the teeth.
• Make sure your child uses dental floss daily. A floss threader can be helpful in threading the floss under the wires. You can inquire about this when getting braces for children at dental clinics.
• A proxy brush can be a useful tool for removing food or debris between the teeth.
• Consider using a dental water jet or other oral hygiene tools to remove food and debris between the teeth.
• Ensure that your child gets regular teeth cleanings and check-ups every 6 months or as recommended by the dentist.
• Limit your child's intake of sugar and starch. Residual debris from these types of foods can turn into harmful acids that promote tooth decay and cause white spots around the braces.
• Avoid hard or sticky snacks, including hard foods such as popcorn, cookies, hard candies, nuts, and sticky foods like chewing gum, caramels, and other chewy candies. Avoid chewing on ice.

Above is an article about the appropriate age for braces in children. If your child is within this age range, it is important to pay extra attention and prioritize their oral health. Schedule a visit to a reputable dental clinic like Champion Dental for regular check-ups and care.

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