Dental Braces for Kids

Latest Dental Braces for Kids Tips

Bad bites on children can be corrected with dental braces once most of the permanent teeth are out; this is normally from age 7 or 8. In the past, all braces were made of steel wires fitted around the teeth that look like metal rings. These wires attached to brackets pull the teeth to its proper alignment. Unfortunately, because of the unsightly metals, these braces that were then called “metal mouth” were a cause of embarrassment for children fitted with it since they usually get ridiculed by their peers.

These days however, there are cosmetic braces that are almost invisible and even pleasing to the eyes. Some children now display multi-colored braces, clear sapphire brackets and invisible braces that are no longer a cause of embarrassment for children but even serve as a status symbol for some. But metal braces, invisible braces, multi-colored braces all work under the same procedure and are expected to have the same results, to give the children a perfect smile.

Braces can virtually shift children’s tooth through the bone. The bone acts in response to the tautness brought about by the wires and brackets and creates pockets on both sides of the tooth. These pockets move the bone on one side of the tooth and cause the growth of bones on the other side moving the tooth in the process.

The length of time for children to wear dental braces depends on the gravity of the orthodontic irregularity; normally however, it is between one to three years. During the period that children are wearing braces, regular appointment for cleaning is required since it is rather difficult for children to clean their braces. This is to prevent permanent staining on the child’s teeth.

After the treatment and braces are removed, children are still required to wear retainers to keep the teeth set in their new alignment. Most retainers are removal but there are also permanent or non-removable retainers. The orthodontist will decide what type of retainers are best suited for the child.