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Information About Getting Braces for Kids

If a dentist or orthodontist has decided that a child needs braces, there are lots of choices. Today, braces are smaller, thinner, and less visible than in years past. Newer ones can also fix teeth faster, meaning less time with them on. Preparing children with these facts will make the transition to wearing and caring for braces easier once they get them.

  1. Why You May Need Braces

    • There are many potential reasons why a child may need braces, but dentists generally group them into three categories. Those categories are called Malocclusion I, II and III. A Malocclusion I is when teeth are crooked, crowded too close together or protrude. Malocclusion II is when a child has an overbite, more commonly known as buck teeth. Finally, Malocclusion III is when a child has an underbite. This means the child either has a lower jaw that is too big or an upper jaw that is too small.

    What to Expect

    • Braces are small brackets (usually made of metal) that are strategically placed on the teeth then connected together with metal wires. The wire is held in place by small rubber bands. The pressure caused by these brackets, wires and rubber bands forces the teeth to straighten out. This is a gradual process, so even after the braces are initially put on, they have to be tightened so that the teeth can continue to straighten. There is generally some soreness and pain after the braces are put on and after each tightening. The doctor can prescribe medicine or suggest over-the-counter drugs to help this. Use a dental wax to alleviate discomfort should the braces rub against the inside of the mouth and cause irritation.

    How to Care for Braces

    • Once you have your braces, food particles can easily get trapped in them. This can lead to bad breath and even cavities. People with braces should be careful to brush after every meal or snack. Regular flossing can't be done with braces, but there are special flossers available from your dentist to make sure the areas between teeth stay clean. The only other maintenance you may need is if a wire should snap, you should make an appointment to get it fixed by the dentist as soon as possible.

    Fun with Braces

    • Though metal is still very common for braces, there are other materials that can be used that are far less obvious or visible. One is porcelain, which can blend in with teeth so that they are barely noticeable. Unfortunately, they are fragile and not all people needing braces are eligible. There are also clear wires that are not as obvious that can take the place of metal. Rubber bands now come in all kinds of colors for self expression. They are easy to change out too, so with each visit to the dentist it is possible to change the colors to reflect the season, or even a special event or holiday.

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