Kids Braces Tips, Types of Braces for Children
Posted by zigag on Jun.10, 2011, under Type
Kids Braces Tips, Types of Braces for Children
Orthodontic problems such as crowded teeth and a badly developing jaw are very common even to children as young as 3 years old. These orthodontic problems are usually caused by thumb sucking, tongue thrusting and other bad myofunctional habits.
Orthodontists are of one mind that treatment or the use of dental appliances to correct such irregularities should be started early on for best results. Early means once all the permanent teeth of the child have grown out or between the ages of 7 or 8 years. Parents should have their children examined and evaluated to learn the cause of the problem and at the same time get an assessment of what the best treatment should be.
Orthodontic care usually requires the use of appliances such as braces. These appliances are meant to straighten teeth, remedy irregular bites, close unsightly gaps, align teeth and help in the proper development of the jaw. The result of an orthodontic treatment is overall dental health and a beautiful smile.
The three most common types of dental braces recommended for children are:
Labial braces – These are the more traditional type of braces that are affixed and worn on the outer side of a child’s teeth. It comes in three types; metal braces, ceramic braces and clear braces. The main difference between these three distinct types of labial braces is purely aesthetics.
Lingual braces – These are braces fitted or worn on the inside of the teeth. Since these are worn on the inside of the teeth, it sometimes cause some tongue irritation and soreness at the initial stage of treatment. There are even cases when children develop a lisp that also disappears once the child gets used to the appliance. Wax can be coated on the brackets to lessen the irritation.
Invasalign – These are clear removable braces that are almost invisible. This type of brace is usually recommended for less severe problems. Invasalign braces do not cause soreness and speech impairment but they require regular visit, at least twice a month, to the orthodontist to replace the removable braces in place with a tighter set. The tightening process is the key to the straightening of the teeth.
