Braces For Kids: What You Need To Know

For many children, braces are very common. While some children may be excited to get braces, given that it’s a rite of passage that indicates they’ll soon be teenagers, it is important to know what to expect as a parent. Naturally, if you are considering braces for your child, you likely have a lot of questions. In this article, we will discuss some of the most frequently asked questions in regards to braces for children.

Does My Child Need Braces?

Braces for children are much more common nowadays compared to 30 years ago. This is due to a number of reasons, including accessibility to orthodontic treatment, better treatment methods, among many other reasons. You may be wondering whether your child is an ideal candidate for braces. If you believe that your child may need braces, it is best to schedule a consultation with our orthodontist at Select Dental & Orthodontics, so our team can better assess your child’s teeth and bite.

In general, braces may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including overcrowding, overbites, underbites, and more. Here are some common reasons as to why your child may need to see an orthodontist:

Difficulty biting or chewing
Thumb-sucking
Overcrowded or crooked teeth
Teeth that meet abnormally or do not meet at all
Early loss of primary teeth

If your child needs braces, then your dentist in Torrance, CA will likely suggest that your child see an orthodontist. An orthodontist specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of misaligned teeth, jaws, and bites. Your orthodontist will be able to determine whether your child needs braces or a different type of orthodontic treatment.

What Happens During an Orthodontic Visit?

During an orthodontic examination, the orthodontist will examine your child’s teeth and jaw thoroughly. The orthodontist will want to see how your child’s bite comes together and ask whether he or she experiences any issues when chewing, biting, or swallowing. It is likely that the orthodontist will want to take X-rays to better examine the position of the teeth and jaw and also check to see if any permanent teeth have emerged. The orthodontist may require an impression of your child’s teeth, which will help determine the best type of orthodontic treatment for your child, if necessary.

What’s the Ideal Age For Braces?

There is no set age for acquiring braces. Generally, children between the ages of nine and 14 are able to get braces because this is the time when some of their permanent teeth have emerged at this point. However, dentists and orthodontists recommend that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven. This is because it is easier to address any concerns early on, as opposed to later in order to avoid more serious issues.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

The cost of braces vary based on a number of factors, including:

Dental insurance coverage: Many insurance providers consider braces as a cosmetic dental procedure, meaning it may be difficult to find an insurance provider that will cover the cost of braces. It is best to talk to your insurance provider to get a better understanding of your coverage.

The length of treatment: Generally, traditional metal braces are worn for up to 24 months. However, if your child requires braces for a longer period of time or additional orthodontic treatment, then it may be more expensive.

The type of braces: There are many different types of braces available. The type of braces your child will wear will depend on cost, preference, severity of the condition, among other factors. Some of the types of braces that we offer are traditional metal braces, Invisalign, lingual braces, and ceramic braces. Traditional metal braces are generally less expensive than other types of braces.

If you are considering braces for your child in Torrance California, feel free to contact our team to schedule a consultation!

How Long Will My Child Have to Wear Braces?

Generally, traditional metal braces are worn for 18 to 24 months. However, in some cases, braces may need to be worn for shorter or longer periods of time. The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the case. It is best to speak with your child’s orthodontist to determine how long treatment will be specific to your child’s case.

Schedule a Consultation With Our Team!

At Select Dental & Orthodontics, our team has extensive experience providing dental and orthodontic solutions for both children and adults. If you are considering braces for your child and are looking for a trusted, experienced, and dedicated team that you can count on, feel free to contact our team to schedule a consultation. We will be able to provide your child with a thorough examination and explain the different types of options available. We are committed to providing you and your child with the best service and results possible.