Did you know this month is #NationalChildrensDentalHealthMonth? This month & every month, it’s so important to set your special little guy or gal up for a successful, confident smile for a lifetime through key proactive oral health measures, including making sure they have their first orthodontic visit by age 7! While it is true that not every child requires orthodontic treatment, it is recommended as a necessity by the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) to have them screened at age seven. The earlier orthodontic problems are identified, the easier & more cost-effective they are to treat. Once your orthodontist analyzes the issues that need correcting, they will then recommend an appropriate treatment option. Those treatment options may include:
1. Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are metal brackets glued to the teeth. It is the most conventional and affordable type of orthodontic treatment. The treatment period depends on the severity of the problem, but it takes anywhere between one and three years on average. Braces require regular maintenance and tightening. The adjusting process increases tension and which helps with teeth straightening. Even though traditional braces are not as aesthetically pleasing as other options, they have to stay in your child’s mouth 24/7. This is what makes them great for children who are not mature enough to safeguard their removable aligners.
2. Invisalign
Invisalign are custom-made, removable aligners that fit your kid’s teeth. They realign the teeth by applying pressure. Your family orthodontist will use a scanner to create 3D images of the teeth. A personalized set of Invisalign is then designed based on the dental formula. Removable aligners also require constant maintenance. Your child will need a new Invisalign every two weeks up to eight weeks, depending on how intense the problem is. This technology is very advanced and can treat a variety of issues. It is an ideal choice for children who do not want to change their appearance with braces. The aligners are very comfortable. They are also removable, which is important when a kid eats, brush their teeth, or flosses.
3. Lingual Braces
This treatment is a different approach to the subtlety of orthodontic treatment that is invisible to everyone but you! Lingual braces are a type of braces placed behind your child’s teeth. Your orthodontist will send a screening of teeth to a dental lab for inspection. After approximately six weeks, the lab will design custom brackets. Since the braces are behind the teeth, they are the least visible orthodontic treatment. They can’t get misplaced or accidentally thrown away either. The precision in making lingual braces makes them more costly and effective than other types of braces. For some kids, it may take a while before they adjust to the tongue irritation they cause.
