Child Orthodontics: Time for Braces?
So, your son or daughter doesn’t have perfect teeth. That’s OK! It should put your child’s mind at ease to know that lots of kids don’t have straight teeth. Sometimes teeth just come in a little crooked. It just might mean that it’s time to see the Orthodontist and possibly get braces.
Psychology
Timing couldn’t be better for your child to receive braces. Dr. Jeff Foster of First Impressions Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics who treats patients in the Wausau, Rhinelander and Stevens Point offices says, “The stigma of braces is now a thing of the past. Today’s kids see braces as a fashion statement.”
More than just the fashion statement, it means they’ll have a perfect smile for years to come. This can help build your child’s self confidence and promote a positive self image at a time when they need it most.
Health Benefits
In today’s society your teeth are an extension of your attire. Aside from the obvious aesthetic benefits of having a perfect smile, good jaw alignment also means your child will have a properly functioning bite.
Over time poor alignment of teeth can progressively get worse. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) and loosening of teeth.
Common problems such as excess over jet and overbite, as well as crowding are popular issues I see on a daily basis. Braces as well as other techniques used by your orthodontist can correct this,” says Doctor Foster.
Treatment of malocclusions (bad bite) can contribute to healthy teeth and gums as well as improved digestion and speech.
Braces Options
Today's technology offers numerous options when it comes to straightening teeth. While metal braces are still used, the brackets used today are smaller and stronger than that which we were accustomed to. Additionally, braces that are the same color as the teeth and clear braces are very popular and less noticeable. In some instances braces are not even used to correct the patient's concerns.
What to Expect
With all the new technology, braces are now more comfortable, aesthetic and patients are wearing them for less time. While the time frame that braces will be needed to correct a specific problem varies, most kids can expect to have their braces for under two years. Doctor Foster says, “It’s possible that some children will be required to wear head gear to aid in the alignment. Not to worry, these are usually worn at home and during the evening hours.”
With today’s economy there is no better investment than the self esteem of your child. Payment plans for braces are structured on an individual bases and they can be tailored to fit your needs. Consult your orthodontist for exact fees.
Keeping your child’s teeth clean while wearing braces is especially important since braces tend to attract food. As difficult as it may be, it’s best to keep your child away from hard or sticky candy and chewing gum. Remind your child to brush after every meal and make sure all food is removed from the braces. Your orthodontist can suggest tools to help your child floss while wearing braces.
Your child could feel some discomfort due to the fact that braces put pressure on the mouth, especially after an adjustment from the orthodontist. Often times a simple pain reliever can aid with this. If a bracket or wire should come loose, see your orthodontist right away.
Appointment Time
Only your orthodontist can tell you if it’s the right time to get braces or not. Doctor Foster urges parents to make an early consultation with the orthodontist to catch any pre-brace issues. “Getting familiar with the orthodontist early on helps ease anxiety and gives parents a complete picture of all the latest options available.” Best of all it’s free.