Braces are durable, practical, and effective, making them an ideal choice for children. In Attleboro, MA, braces for children typically cost about $3,000 to $8,000.
Why Your Child May Need Braces
Tooth alignment is more than a cosmetic issue. Braces can improve multiple oral and overall health conditions. Researchers associate orthodontic correction with better lifetime oral health.
Conditions Braces Can Correct
Some children have visibly misaligned teeth or jaws, but the signs are more subtle for others:
- Malocclusion (crooked or overcrowded teeth)
- Gapped teeth
- Bite issues: These problems include overbite, underbite, open bite, and crossbite. When they are left untreated, bite problems can lead to trouble chewing and speaking.
- Jaw misalignment: Braces can correct simple cases of crooked teeth and severe jaw issues. Doctors can use a combination of orthodontic appliances to widen the palate and bring the jaw into alignment.
- Impacted teeth: Sometimes, a child's teeth cannot erupt properly. In this case, an oral surgeon would expose the tooth and attach an orthodontic bracket. Over time, braces can adjust the impacted tooth's position so it aligns with its neighbors.
How Braces Work
Orthodontic braces gently apply pressure to the teeth, helping them move to their desired positions. First, the orthodontist applies metal brackets to the forward-facing tooth surfaces. Next, they install small metal bands around the molars. A metal archwire connects the brackets and molar bands. Tiny elastic bands hold the archwire on the brackets.
The orthodontist tightens the archwire to foster tooth movement, helping the teeth shift position. After about 12 to 18 months, your child may be ready to have their braces taken off and enjoy their new smile.
Helping Your Child Care for Their Braces
Caring for braces can be challenging for children. Orthodontists encourage parents to supervise and assist as needed.
Avoid sticky, crunchy, and hard foods and any food that will become trapped behind the wires. Brush at least twice daily, adding an interproximal brush to access the area behind the archwires. Floss carefully using a threader available at any pharmacy.
If your child's braces break or loosen, call your orthodontist immediately. If your child experiences irritation inside the lips or cheeks, use orthodontic wax to cover the uncomfortable edges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
When should my child see an orthodontist for the first time?
Today, pediatric dentists recommend that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation at around age 7. Orthodontists check children's oral development and can determine how to correct alignment issues proactively.
How long does my child need to wear a retainer after braces?
Today, most orthodontists recommend wearing a retainer indefinitely to preserve your investment in your child’s smile.
Call Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry
If you believe your child needs braces, please call our Attleboro office at 508-409-6160 to schedule an evaluation. We look forward to meeting you and your child.