Learn the truth about the best age for dental braces

About 50 to 70% of American children need braces before becoming adults. There are two sides to orthodontic treatment. One is for the correction of imperfect teeth other is for better aesthetics or to gain a better smile. Read on to find out the best age for braces.

The Best Age For Braces

• The first orthodontic visit should be scheduled by the time a child reaches age seven, as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Orthodontic issues such as underbites or crowded teeth are expected at this age. In addition, when your child’s teeth are still developing, it becomes easier to address orthodontic issues.

However, some orthodontic problems should be addressed once all permanent teeth come in. An early appointment goes a long way in identifying dental anomalies and determining if your child needs any orthodontic treatment in the future. Braces can solve several dental issues, including teeth crowding, tooth spacing, missing teeth, and improper bite.

Type Of Misalignments To Look For

• Monitor your child’s teeth for orthodontic concerns, such as misaligned teeth. Misaligned teeth are common and often hereditary in children. Watch out for the following three classes of malocclusion:

Class 1

• The child has a normal bite; however, the upper and lower teeth overlap slightly.

Class 2

• In class 2 malocclusion, the upper and lower teeth severely overlap. This is known as an overbite.

Class 3

• Class 3 malocclusion is also called an underbite. In this condition, the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth and jaw.

Difficulty biting, chewing, speech issues, and a tendency to breathe through the mouth are common signs of abnormal tooth alignment. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s teeth alignment, book an appointment with the orthodontist. The orthodontist will assess the situation and help determine the right treatment option for your child.

Tips To Help Your Child Adjust To Braces

• Once a child gets braces, it is essential to help him get comfortable with them. Braces can give rise to different emotions. Parents and caregivers should prepare the child by encouraging each step.

From the first orthodontic appointment to the final removal appointment, prepare your child with the following tips:

Make Them Comfortable

• If your child is afraid of the new mouth accessory, find something to excite him. Motivate them by offering different color band options to choose from. Buy them their favorite lunch or video game, and give them something to look forward to before the appointment.

Encourage Proper Hygiene

• Help your children protect their healthy smile while wearing braces. Educate them about the foods that can harm their braces. Teach them how to brush around the brackets and wires. To help them properly clean their teeth, purchase special floss or a water flosser.

Prepare Them For Discomfort

• Braces can be highly uncomfortable and painful. It is advisable to be honest with children without scaring them. Prepare them for the pain and offer over-the-counter pain relievers to cope with the pain. Purchase special wax that prevents gum and cheeks from irritation and reduces poking from the braces or wires.

Motivate Your Children

• Braces can cause feelings of awkwardness and resentment, especially among older children. Make sure your child is not experiencing any bullying at school. Stay connected with your children to learn how they feel about the braces.

Point out the lifelong benefits of braces and remind them of the end goal. A healthy, beautiful smile will boost confidence for a lifetime. This is worth all the discomfort.

Our qualified orthodontics Icon Dental Center provides the best Orthodontic Treatment, including braces and aligners. You can find a detailed list of other treatments on our website. For consultations or bookings, call us at 206-225-2882 for orthodontics office in Seattle and 425-337-2400 for orthodontics office in Everett.