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Kids often first have braces placed between the ages of 8 and 12. This is because:1, 2
Braces for kids are generally intended to guide adolescent growth toward a positive outcome, both in terms of function and aesthetics.1
In some cases, waiting for all the permanent teeth to erupt isn’t optimal, and the braces specialist may suggest early treatment (before puberty).3, 4
Your child may need braces if he or she suffers from malocclusion, which refers to misalignment of the teeth, jaws, or both.5, 6
Some signs to look for include:
Orthodontists generally recommend that children have their first orthodontic checkup by the age of 6 to 8.3, 4 Depending on your child’s needs, the orthodontist may recommend waiting before starting treatment or opting to start the first phase of treatment right away.
Here are the most common types of braces for children:
Traditional metal braces apply pressure to the teeth with a series of brackets attached to an archwire. They’re often made from stainless steel, but titanium can also be used.
Traditional braces generally use elastic bands called ligatures to secure each bracket to the archwire. These ligatures may be separate o-rings or come linked together as power chains.
Treatment time can vary from 6 months to over 2.5 years, depending on your child’s needs.
Self-ligating braces are similar to traditional braces but don’t require ligatures. This is because the brackets are designed to stay attached to the archwire by themselves.
Treatment length is similar to traditional braces but may be shorter or longer depending on the teeth involved.
Lingual braces work similarly to traditional braces. The main difference is that they are placed behind the teeth rather than in front of them. This makes them less visible.
Treatment time for lingual braces is comparable to that of traditional braces, but it may take longer in some cases.
Ceramic braces, also referred to as clear or invisible braces, feature brackets made of ceramic rather than metal. This material is generally transparent or colored to match the teeth.
Ceramic braces don’t move teeth as quickly as metal braces. They may also require replacement from time to time due to breakage. For these reasons, treatment time may be somewhat longer.
Clear aligners are thin plastic trays that fit over buttons on the teeth. They offer a less invasive alternative to metal and ceramic braces, though they vary in quality.
Treatment time is often between a year and 18 months, making clear aligners a potentially faster alternative to traditional braces. This is because clear aligners are only used to treat mild problems.
Orthodontic treatment is generally considered easier for children and adolescents than for older people. This is because the pressure applied by braces works especially well in conjunction with the soft bone and rapid growth of adolescence.1
When the body is already growing and teeth are shifting into their adult placement, it becomes easier for braces to guide the teeth into proper alignment.4, 6
Older people are more likely to have denser bone and have developed age-related tooth problems, making treatment even more difficult.7
Orthodontic treatment times for children and adults don’t usually differ much, but children and adults may have different orthodontic needs that determine treatment length.8, 9
During your first appointment with an orthodontist, the orthodontist will examine your child’s teeth to determine whether braces are warranted.
If the orthodontist determines that braces (or clear aligners) are suitable for your child, they will take impressions of your child’s teeth. They may also take X-rays and/or have digital models made to determine the best treatment option for your child.
The cost of braces can vary according to the type and material and the specific needs of your child. The following are general estimates:10, 11
Braces | Cost |
Traditional | $2,000 to $7,000 |
Self-Ligating | $2,000 to $7,000 (comparable to traditional; may be slightly more) |
Lingual | $8,000 to $10,000 |
Ceramic | $4,000 to $8,000 |
Clear Aligners | $1,000 to $8,000 (varies widely by brand) |
Dental insurance may cover the cost of orthodontic treatment up to a certain amount. Policies differ, and there may be a yearly or lifetime maximum or an age requirement.
Many orthodontists offer flexible payment plans. Some offer a discount for paying in full at the beginning of treatment.
You may be able to save money by having treatment done by students in training at a dental school. Financial aid for orthodontic treatment is also available.
Orthodontic braces are often recommended for kids either in early puberty or a bit before. This is because teeth are generally easier to move into alignment before they’ve settled into their adult positions.
Several kinds of braces are available. Schedule a consultation with an orthodontist to determine which options are best for your child.
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