Early Treatment With Braces For Kids
Bridgeport, New Haven, Danbury, Stratford, Orange, CT
When Should My Child See An Orthodontist?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized treatment that involves both the straightening of teeth and the modification of the patient’s physical appearance and facial structure. Two-phase treatment plans are designed to give your child the best possible chance of achieving a long-lasting, life-enhancing combination of health, function, and aesthetics.
Typically, Phase One (or Early Treatment) begins when a patient has both their first permanent molars and incisors (usually by age seven). This is why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children should visit an orthodontist no later than age seven. At that time, our orthodontists at CT Braces will determine if your child needs braces.
The second phase of tooth development typically begins after most permanent teeth have erupted. Early treatment aims to correct jaw growth and specific bite issues, such as underbite. Getting your baby teeth out early can help make space for your permanent teeth, which can reduce the need for painful and expensive extractions down the road.
Benefits Of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Many people think of braces as a cosmetic tool, but they can also help people with certain problems. Kids with misaligned bites, crowded teeth, or big gaps between them would benefit from getting braces when they are younger. If not addressed, these problems can lead to bigger problems in the future, like tooth decay, pain, trouble chewing, and trouble speaking.
Since fixing these kinds of problems usually takes longer, starting treatment as soon as possible is usually best. When a child is entering their teenage years, getting braces can often have a bigger effect on their self-image and confidence.
Types Of Braces
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most popular type of braces, and for a good reason. They work well, last a long time, and are more affordable. Plus, with all the improvements in orthodontic care, metal braces are now more comfortable than ever. Here is what you can expect when you choose metal braces:
When the braces are first put on, our orthodontists at CT Braces will use a special glue that is safe to use in the mouth to stick the brackets to the teeth. You can keep them in place by threading a thin wire through them and securing the rubber bands. Depending on your treatment plan, the wire is tightened every four to six weeks, applying steady pressure until your teeth move into perfect alignment. Depending on how many adjustments you need, you can expect to wear metal braces for about 12 to 24 months.
The rubber bands on metal braces also come in a wide range of colors, so you can change your look to fit your personality. And because they are made of metal, they are very strong and can handle even the toughest treatment plans. So, if you want to straighten your teeth and don’t want to spend a lot of money doing it, metal braces may be the right choice for you.
Clear Braces
There are many different types of braces used to straighten teeth, and the type that works best for each person depends on several factors. Clear braces are one of the most popular choices for kids. Clear braces are made from a transparent material that is almost invisible when worn. This makes them a popular choice for kids who are self-conscious about wearing braces.
Clear braces are also very good at fixing a wide range of dental problems, making them a good choice for kids with more complicated orthodontic needs. If you’re thinking about getting clear braces for kids, talk to one of our experienced orthodontists to find out if they’re the best choice for your child’s specific needs.
