Once considered a sign of awkwardness and frequently mentioned in high school yearbooks, braces are no longer viewed negatively. Braces no longer carry the same negative connotation as they once did. They are now considered an investment as opposed to a burden. Self-care has emerged to aid those who previously could not afford braces or whose treatment failed to restore their health and self-esteem.
Braces is now widely accepted as a necessity for maintaining oral hygiene and for cosmetic reasons.
What Are Braces?
Although many people are familiar, many still wonder: what are dental braces? Braces are orthodontic appliances or devices that align teeth and treat dental conditions such as overcrowding, misaligned bites, and tooth gaps. They consist of brackets, wires, and other parts attached to your child’s teeth, and gradually move them into the desired position by applying gentle pressure. Children with dental issues affecting their oral health or self-esteem may benefit from orthodontic treatment.
As a result of advances in modern orthodontics and the development of new, more affordable options, more individuals can now obtain and benefit from braces.
What Advantages Do Braces Offer?
Braces can enhance a child’s speaking, chewing, and oral hygiene abilities. Using braces to correct dental issues can also prevent the development of more severe problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw pain in the future. They can also improve a child’s self-esteem in the future.
Your child can benefit from wearing braces, despite their discomfort and inconvenience. Consult with a compassionate Lakewood Ranch dentist about braces’ potential benefits and risks to make an informed decision based on your child’s needs and circumstances.
When Should My Child Start Wearing Braces?
The optimal age for children to start wearing braces may vary depending on the circumstances. However, it is generally recommended that children undergo their first orthodontic examination by age seven. This enables the orthodontist to identify potential issues early and, if necessary, develop a treatment plan. Sometimes, you can delay treatment until the child is 12 to 14 years old when permanent teeth are fully developed.
A child should consult with an orthodontist before deciding whether to wear braces because they might need other specialized care. Specialized dental care refers to dental services provided by dentists with advanced training and expertise in a particular area of dentistry. There are several areas of specialized dental care; you can read more to be informed about this.
The orthodontist can evaluate the child’s needs and determine if braces are required. They may not always be necessary or must be postponed until the child is older and has reached maturity.
How Long Does My Child Need to Wear It?
It is vital to remember that wearing braces requires time. Treatment typically lasts one to three years, depending on the severity of the orthodontic issues. Additionally, you must care for them with regular orthodontist visits, braces adjustments, and rigorous oral hygiene practices.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
There are several factors, including the severity of the dental issues that must be corrected, the type of braces used, and the location of the orthodontist; all significantly impact the cost of braces. In the United States, orthodontic appliances typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Consult your dentist for a more precise estimate.
Check with your insurance company to determine if you are covered.
Additionally, some orthodontic offices may offer financing or payment plans to make the expense more manageable. Before beginning treatment, discussing your options with your orthodontist and obtaining an accurate cost estimate is best.
Conclusion
Braces for children can be a valuable and effective way to correct dental issues. However, you should only apply for braces after consulting a qualified orthodontist and considering the needs and environment of the child.
