Orthodontics Braces for children - types, benefits, and proper care

A beautiful and healthy smile, often associated with aligned and bright teeth, sends an important message about us. However, straight teeth are not just about aesthetics; they play a crucial role in chewing and speech. As many parents have realized this, orthodontic treatments with braces have become a viable option for those looking to maintain their children’s oral health.

When should we visit the orthodontist?

According to The American Association of Orthodontists, the first visit to the orthodontist should ideally take place after the age of 7 when the child has a mixed dentition. At this age, when both baby teeth and permanent teeth are present, the orthodontist can assess whether the child’s bite is correct, whether the mandible is properly positioned in relation to the maxilla, and if the permanent teeth are growing in the correct position. This allows early intervention to correct potential orthodontic problems with the help of braces.

For parents wondering when to take their child for an orthodontic check-up, here are some signs to watch for:

• The child has difficulty chewing food
• Baby teeth fall out much earlier than expected
• Prolonged use of a pacifier beyond 2 years of age
• The child breathes through the mouth instead of the nose
• Abnormal jaw growth
• Crowded or misaligned teeth
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) during sleep
• Speech difficulties
• Facial asymmetries

Treatment stages

Braces help correct orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth, excessive interdental spaces, overbite, and underbite. This can be achieved through traditional braces with brackets or modern clear aligners.

Visiting the orthodontist is essential when opting for braces, as radiological investigations and measurements are necessary. Only an orthodontic specialist can interpret these findings to ensure the desired results. Once all the data is assessed, the orthodontist selects the most suitable braces. They will also provide parents and children with guidance on proper oral hygiene during treatment.

The duration of orthodontic treatment usually ranges from 18 months to 2 years, depending on individual cases. In some instances, treatment may take longer, particularly if initiated later, after the eruption of permanent teeth.

After completing the orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist may recommend a retention phase, which involves wearing a retainer to maintain the achieved results over time.

Types of braces for children

• Removable braces – Suitable for children with temporary or mixed dentition, typically recommended until the age of 12. Their primary role is to intercept and partially correct jaw growth anomalies. They are ideal for milder cases and can be removed for cleaning.
• Fixed braces – The most commonly used type due to its high efficiency. Fixed braces consist of brackets, which can be made of metal, ceramic, or sapphire, and elastic bands. They are recommended after age 12. Because they exert greater pressure on the teeth, they are also effective for adults with complex oral rehabilitation needs. Treatment duration varies from a few months to over two years, depending on the case.
• Lingual braces – Offer superior aesthetics as they are placed on the back of the teeth, making them invisible to others. These braces can be fitted after the age of 12–14. One major advantage is their effectiveness over a relatively short period. Made from gold alloy, they adapt quickly and can correct most orthodontic anomalies.
• Functional appliances (dental trainers) – These correct tooth positioning issues and are recommended for children as young as 4 years old. They can also help children who experience breathing difficulties during sleep.

Benefits of braces for children

Opting for orthodontic treatment provides undeniable benefits for children’s oral and overall health. Orthodontic treatment:

• Ensures a proper bite, significantly improving chewing and digestion
• Corrects tooth alignment issues (crooked or crowded teeth)
• Eliminates harmful habits (thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use)
• Enhances facial aesthetics and contributes to a confident smile
• Boosts self-esteem

Proper care for dental braces

Both fixed and removable braces require special care to ensure long-lasting results.

For removable braces, they can be taken out and cleaned easily. Dentists recommend using a special brush different from the regular toothbrush. Additionally, children should be reminded to perform thorough brushing and use dental floss before reinserting the appliance.

For fixed braces, oral hygiene is equally important. While these braces cannot be removed, elastic bands can be taken out for better cleaning. A soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste should be used to clean all dental surfaces, each bracket individually, and the connecting metal wires. An interdental brush can help reach difficult areas.

Proper hygiene should also include using mouthwash and a water flosser to remove any remaining food particles stuck between teeth and brackets.

Conclusions

The recommendation for braces depends on the existing orthodontic issues. The most important thing for parents to remember is that an early visit to the pediatric orthodontist is the easiest way to ensure a healthy and beautiful smile from childhood.