As exam season comes to an end, many parents are considering getting braces for their kids. With multiple teeth straightening options available in India, it can be overwhelming for parents to decide which treatment is the best for their kids. Also, many questions may arise, like, "Does my child need braces?", "What is the right time for my child to get braces?"" How long will the treatment take?" or "What is the cost of Braces in India?" Don't worry, we are here to answer all your questions and queries. Read the following blog to learn everything you need to know about Braces for Kids.
How do I know if my child needs braces?
There are many different reasons why your child needs braces. Some common reasons include overbites, crowding, deep-bites, protruding teeth (rabbit teeth), gaps between teeth, etc.
Parents can look out for the following signs to know if their child needs an orthodontic treatment or not:
- Difficulty in chewing and biting
- Thumb sucking
- Mouth breathing
- Visible gaps between teeth
- Speech problems and slurring of speech
- Jaw protruding outward
- Overcrowded/ Overlapping teeth
- Rotated teeth, etc.
What is the right age to get Braces?
Although there is no age limit for getting braces, according to Orthodontists, the preferred age for getting braces is between 12 and 18 years of age.
This is because of the following reasons:
- It is easier to fix and reposition misaligned teeth at this age because the teeth and jaws are still in the developing stage.
- It is easier to fix and reposition misaligned teeth at this age because the teeth and jaws are still in the developing stage.
- Lowering the risk of future dental problems promotes oral health for a lifetime.
- At this age, many other children also get braces so the child doesn't feel self-conscious or embarrassed. We can all agree that getting visible braces can be overwhelming as an adult, right?
What are the types of braces available for my kid?
There are a plethora of braces and aligner teeth straightening options to choose from. The treatment will depend on individual needs as recommended by the orthodontist in collaboration with the parent's choice. Here's a list of types of braces available for your kid:
Metal Braces
These are one of the most popular types of braces. They consist of brackets and metal wires, which gradually and slowly shift your teeth to the desired position. These metal braces are visible and come in a variety of options, like tooth- colored ligatures or self-ligating braces. They are the most cost-effective option for straightening teeth.
Ceramic Braces
This is another popular category for braces. In ceramic braces, also known as clear braces, the braces and wires are tooth colored, blend in, and are not as noticeable as metal braces. These braces cost slightly more than metal braces due to their aesthetic appearance.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, also known as Invisible braces, are a discreet and aesthetically preferred option for teeth straightening. They consist of custom-made trays that help straighten teeth over time.