About four million people are wearing braces in the United States at any given time. Many people aren’t born with naturally straight teeth, and braces can give you that perfect smile.
Yet, what are the best braces for children? Are there certain kinds that have more benefits than others?
This is a very important decision, and we can help you decide which type of braces may be best for your child. Read our guide below to get started.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are considered “traditional braces” because they were once the only kind available. However, they have changed over time, with smaller brackets and new materials that make the wiring more lightweight and comfortable.
The ties that hold the brackets can come in a variety of colors, which makes it a more exciting process of getting braces, especially for children.
Metal braces are the cheapest option and are extremely durable, making them suitable for kids who may not be the best at avoiding certain sticky or hard food.
They are also good for more complex orthodontic cases. If you think your child has a more complex case and may need jaw surgery, click here to learn All About Braces surgical orthodontics.
Ceramic Braces
However, the major difference is the color of the brackets.Ceramic braces are considered to be less noticeable because the brackets are made out of tooth-colored ceramic material. Ties are also used to keep the brackets in place, but they are generally white to match the color of the teeth.
They are still quite durable but are less durable than metal braces, which means children may break them more easily. They are also more prone to staining when certain foods or drinks are consumed.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are one of the lesser-known types of braces, but they are still highly effective. Lingual braces are put on the inside of the teeth, so they are virtually invisible.
When choosing braces for children, you need to be aware of your particular child’s orthodontic needs. Lingual braces are best used for a child with a mild case, such as slightly crooked teeth.
Anything more severe than that would require one of the other types of braces.
Clear Aligners
One of the benefits of braces is that they can give your child more confidence. However, during the braces stage, they may be reluctant to smile or show their teeth at all.
Clear aligners like Invisalign can help solve that problem. They can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, but, if your child’s case is severe, they may not be a candidate.
They also allow your child to brush their teeth thoroughly and eat without restriction because they can take their aligners out. However, clear aligners are often much more expensive than the other types of braces.
Discover the Best Braces for Children
Exploring the best braces for children can help you decide which may be the best choice for your child. Browse through your different options and consider the pros and cons of each.
Then, schedule a consultation with your child’s orthodontist to start the process of getting that perfect smile.
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