Dentistry for Children – Braces And Orthodontics
Some kids don’t like how braces look, while some may be curious as they’re beginning to become more conscious of their appearance. As a parent, you probably are also thinking about getting braces for your kids.
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics focuses on preventing and treating bite, jaw, and teeth irregularities. General Dentists can perform orthodontic treatments but they may also refer certain cases to an orthodontist.
Your child needs to have an orthodontic evaluation to diagnose any potential issues and correct them while it’s early. Orthodontic issues include the following:
- Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
- Overcrowded Teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Extra Teeth
- Jaw Joint Issues
Should My Child Get Braces?
Braces work by applying pressure on the teeth and moving them to the correct position. How long the treatment lasts depends on the severity of the issue, but generally, kids wear braces for about two years.
Usually, children between 10 to 14 get braces and other orthodontic treatments. The process is the same for children and adults. However, treatment can be more complex for adults.
Different Types of Braces
- Metal or plastic braces that use wire
- Lingual braces that are attached to the back of the teeth
- Clear plastic aligners
We offer various types of braces but the most common among children are braces with wires and bands. We'll determine if your child will need other orthodontic devices.
Clear plastic aligners may also be ideal in some cases. These aligners are custom-made to fit the teeth and move them into the right position.
Proper Dental Care When Wearing Braces
- Supervise your child’s brushing to ensure they’re doing it properly. Your child needs to pay more attention to their oral hygiene habits while wearing braces. They need to brush after every meal and replace their brush as soon as the bristles become frayed, or every 3 to 4 months.
- Flossing is also essential in keeping the teeth clean as debris may easily get trapped in the braces.
- Take your child to the dentist every 6 months or as often as instructed for routine hygiene cleanings. Food debris left in their mouth can be removed using an oral irrigator or other tools in the dental office.
- Limit your child's intake of sugary and starchy food, such as cookies and chips. These foods form into acids that eat away at the tooth enamel and cause tooth decay.
- Hard and sticky food is also best avoided as they tend to cling onto the braces and can be hard to remove. They may also cause damage to the appliance and result in discomfort or dental emergencies.
Benefits of Getting Orthodontic Treatments
Getting necessary orthodontic treatments are beneficial for kids for many reasons, such as:
- Fixing bite issues.
- Correcting habits that may negatively affect your child's oral health.
- Monitoring the growth and development of your child's teeth.
- Reducing the chances of having protruding teeth.
- Enhancing your child's confidence.
- Avoiding the need for invasive and costly dental procedures.
- Lowering dental costs for the whole family.
Book Your Child for an Orthodontic Evaluation in South Calgary
If you feel your child needs orthodontic treatment, book them in for a complimentary consultation. Depending on the condition of your child's mouth, your dentist may request dental x-rays. Their recommendations will be based on their findings.
Look at your dental visit as an opportunity to introduce your little ones to the dental office and to get to know the dental team as well.
At Chinook Village Dental, we strive to establish positive relationships with children to make dental visits a pleasant experience for everyone.
If you have further questions about orthodontic treatments, call us today at