Braces for kids can help them get a healthier and more beautiful smile. It’s also a proactive measure that can prevent oral health issues like gum disease, speech problems, and chewing problems.
Early detection of dental issues
When children have crooked teeth or other dental issues, it can lead to problems when they chew food and can make it hard for them to speak clearly. This can affect their self-esteem and cause frustration as they struggle with these activities. With braces, children can get a healthier and more attractive smile that will make these activities easier for them.
The proper alignment of teeth also promotes good digestive health. Children and teenagers who can chew their food properly can digest it better, which can improve their nutrient intake. Also, teeth that protrude are more susceptible to injury from accidents and falls, so getting braces early can prevent these types of problems in the future.
Kids can also get braces to address bite problems like overbites, underbites, and crossbites. This can help them eat more easily, speak more clearly, and prevent jaw pain and headaches. It can even improve breathing problems such as sleep apnea.
Better oral health
Having straight, healthy teeth can give children greater self-confidence and make oral hygiene practices much easier to perform. Crooked teeth can impede proper brushing and flossing, causing plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Braces can correct the underlying issues that lead to these problems, such as overcrowding of the jaw or a bite problem.
In addition to fixing alignment issues, pediatric braces can also help prevent future dental issues. For example, a crossbite can cause teeth to rub together or damage the gums, while an underbite can increase the likelihood of injuries during sports or other activities.
Orthodontic braces are generally metal, with brackets that hold wires that connect to the teeth. Some are clear or have a tooth-coloured covering, and some are even hidden behind the teeth (lingual braces). Children with very sensitive gums or mouths may benefit from orthodontic treatment using removable plastic aligners instead of wires and brackets. These can be custom-made to address the specific needs of each child.
Improved self-esteem
Getting braces can give kids and teens a beautiful smile, which can boost their self-esteem. Often, children with crooked teeth or other dental issues can feel self-conscious about their appearance, which can affect their confidence and social interactions.
Children may hide their mouths when they talk, or might cover their smile with their hands. This is due to the fact that when they have crooked teeth, they don’t feel comfortable smiling or laughing.
This can be a major detriment to their overall happiness, as they will not be able to show their friends and peers their true selves. Fortunately, braces work diligently to correct these issues, gradually improving the alignment of the teeth and helping them achieve a better-looking smile.
The best way to help your child through the orthodontic process is to support them. Be encouraging, and highlight their progress along the way. This will allow them to stay motivated throughout the journey and feel confident about their new, gorgeous smile once their treatment is complete.
Better overall health
Pediatric braces have a significant impact on both the look and function of kids’ teeth. They improve the way the bite and the alignment of teeth come together, which paves the way for better oral health and contributes to a beautiful smile. They also help children speak more clearly and chew food properly, which is essential for proper nutrition. Kids with crooked teeth or a misaligned bite may have speech problems, which can affect their overall quality of life.
The best time to get braces is between the ages of seven and ten when the mouth and jaw bones are still more pliable. However, it is possible to get braces even after all permanent teeth have erupted. In such cases, a specialist can use traditional or clear ceramic braces that are less visible. They provide the same results as metal braces, but they offer a more discreet treatment option for kids. The result is a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.