What’s the Good Age for Braces for Kids? Early Orthodontics

Early orthodontic evaluation and treatment are essential for achieving optimal dental health in kids. If alignment issues such as overcrowding of teeth, jaw misalignment, or improper bite symptoms are present, braces for kids are one of the most common treatments available. In this case, many parents are wondering when’s the time for a child to get braces in Tacoma.

But first, you need to understand why braces may be recommended in the first place. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, kids as young as seven years old need to get an orthodontic evaluation. The primary teeth are usually present at this age, and any misalignment issues can be easily identified.

When are Braces for Kids Necessary?

Early diagnosis and treatment are important to help intercept serious dental problems. It reduces the need for extractions and helps guide the jaw into a more favorable position. In some cases, an orthodontist will recommend getting braces as soon as the permanent teeth begin to come in, which is usually between 8 and 14 years of age.

Other times, an orthodontist may suggest waiting until the child is older and their face has fully developed. This would be the best scenario to prevent any further problems. In general, it’s important to consult a pediatric orthodontist as early as seven years old to detect any possible issues and recommend the right treatment.

Types of Kids Braces

Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most traditional and widely used type of braces among kids. In recent years, more advanced types of brackets have become available that are smaller and more comfortable. They use brackets that are glued to teeth and wires that are used to adjust the teeth’s positions gradually.

Clear Ceramic Braces

These are made of clear ceramic material and are less visible than metal braces. They blend in with the teeth, making them popular among kids. Ceramic braces work the same as traditional braces, but due to the materials used, they are more expensive and may require more care.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces use special clips instead of elastic ties to hold the wires in place. This helps reduce the amount of friction between the brackets and wires, resulting in quicker orthodontic treatment. They also require less frequent adjustments and are available in metal and ceramic.

Invisalign

These are clear, removable aligners custom-made to fit your child’s teeth. Invisalign trays allow for more comfort and ease of use since they don’t use wires or brackets, and they can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. They are also more aesthetically pleasing and require fewer visits to the orthodontist.

Benefits of Braces for Kids

Braces come in handy when it comes to improving a child’s dental health. Plus, there are many benefits to getting braces at a young age. Some of them include the following:

Effectiveness

Braces are a proven and tested way to ensure teeth are properly aligned. Whether for kids, teens, or adults, they are highly efficient at achieving this goal. Braces work on mild to severe cases, allowing the orthodontist to provide great results.

Practicality

Using braces is practical and cost-effective as it only requires certain maintenance practices and regular visits to the orthodontist for adjustments. With braces for kids, treatment time may last for 8-24 months but most likely less for young patients.

Affordability

Getting braces early can save parents a lot of money in the long run. Braces for kids are also generally more affordable than surgery or other complex treatments. Early treatment reduces the need for more complex procedures, and it also helps the patient to avoid more years of wearing braces, which ultimately brings down the cost significantly.

Overall Improvement in Health

Getting braces for kids can help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. This is because any misalignment issues can be corrected, and the child will have a better bite, allowing them to chew and speak properly.

Braces for Kids in Washington

Getting braces for kids will depend on their case, which a qualified pediatric orthodontist can determine. At Pacific Northwest Orthodontics in Tacoma, Southcenter, and Federal Way, WA, we provide a variety of orthodontic treatments for children, teens, and adults.

Our doctors and team use advanced technology to ensure the best possible results are achieved with minimal discomfort or disruption to our patient’s daily life. We are committed to providing your child with the best care and attention, ensuring their experience is as pleasurable as possible.

Contact us today to book an appointment and learn more about our braces for kids in Tacoma, Southcenter, and Federal Way, WA. We look forward to helping you and your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.