Orthodontics Treatment Options for Children

Orthodontics can be used to straighten your child's teeth and to guide the development of their permanent teeth. If a dentist recently advised you that your child needs to have their teeth straightened, you will need to work with the dentist to figure out which appliance is most suitable for your child.

Appliances used for orthodontics, like braces, typically work by constantly pushing on the wearer’s teeth, gradually improving their alignment. A child might have to use one of these for a period of 12 to 36 months to get their teeth to a more natural alignment.

Figuring out the right orthodontics for your child

Let us go over the popular devices used to treat children with misaligned teeth, so parents can make an informed decision on what will work best for their child.

1. Metal braces

These are commonly used to treat children with misaligned teeth, and they have been around for over a century. Braces use metal brackets and wires to push the patient’s teeth to the desired position. The appliance is non-removable once installed by a dentist, so there is no chance that the child can lose it.

The biggest complaint that children have when it comes to braces is the way that they can ruin their smile. The metal components of the device cover up the patient’s teeth, so all other people see is a mouth full of metal.

Pros:

• Braces are effective for straightening teeth and can fix severe alignment issues
• Braces do not require as much commitment on the child’s part
• Braces are a more affordable option than clear aligners

Cons:

• Braces can ruin how the child’s teeth look
• Braces take longer to get used to than clear aligners
• Braces can get in the way of meals and oral hygiene

2. Ceramic braces

These are more aesthetically pleasing types of braces. The components remain the same, but the metal parts are swapped with tooth-colored or transparent ones. Ceramic braces can be just as effective as traditional braces, but they are harder to detect when worn. This makes them a good option for children who might be worried about getting teased for their braces. However, ceramic braces are more prone to staining than conventional braces and are not as durable.

3. Clear aligners

Clear aligners are the most subtle approach to straightening teeth. The treatment involves pushing the patient’s teeth to a better alignment using transparent plastic trays. These trays are removable, so it requires more discipline on the wearer’s part to wear them as recommended and to avoid losing aligner trays.

Pros:

• Virtually invisible devices
• Removable
• More comfortable than braces

Cons:

• Children can easily lose aligner trays
• A child might forget to wear their aligner for 20 hours daily
• They are more expensive

Get your child the treatment that they need

Give us a call or visit our Los Angeles clinic if you think that your child is developing teeth alignment problems. Our dentist will inform you of your child’s best options.

Request an appointment here: https://www.eaglerockdentistry.com or call Eagle Rock Family Dentistry at (323) 621-3100 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.

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