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Orthodontic care is an important part of your child’s overall dental development. Whether it’s to correct crooked teeth, a bad bite, or simply guide proper growth, braces for children are one of the most effective ways to ensure a healthy smile and prevent future dental issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of orthodontic treatment for kids, including what to expect, types of braces, and options like Invisalign.
What is orthodontic treatment and when should kids get braces?
Orthodontic treatment focuses on correcting the alignment of teeth, jaw positions, and bite issues. It’s most effective when started during childhood, especially when a mixture of baby teeth and permanent teeth is still present. This stage allows for interceptive treatment, which can prevent more complex treatments later.
Orthodontists typically recommend a visit around age 7 to assess the eruption of adult teeth and identify potential orthodontic issues, such as overcrowded teeth, misaligned teeth, or cross bites.
What are the types of braces used for children?
Today, parents have a wide range of braces treatment options to choose from. Here's a breakdown of popular types of braces available:
| Type of Braces | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
|
Traditional metal braces |
Affordable and effective, with metal brackets and wires |
Most orthodontic issues |
|
Ceramic braces |
Tooth-coloured or clear ceramic brackets for a discreet look |
Older children & teens |
|
Self-ligating braces |
Use clips instead of rubber bands to reduce friction |
Faster adjustments |
|
Lingual braces |
Placed behind the teeth, completely hidden |
Cosmetic-conscious children |
|
Invisalign |
Clear, removable aligners for younger children |
Mild to moderate issues for all ages |
Your orthodontist will recommend the ideal type of braces used based on your child’s needs, age, and level of dental care required.
Do dental braces hurt?
Many parents ask about pain during braces treatment. When braces for kids are first placed or adjusted, children may feel pressure and soreness for a few days. This is usually managed with soft foods, dental wax, and over-the-counter pain relief.
Some discomfort may occur from orthodontic wires, coloured rubber bands, or loose wire ends. Practicing good oral hygiene habits helps reduce the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, or irritation.
How long is the treatment duration?
The treatment duration varies depending on the severity of the case and the type of braces chosen. On average, braces treatment for children lasts between 18 to 30 months. Starting early with interceptive braces treatment may lead to faster treatment times and reduce the need for future treatment.
Your orthodontist will create a customised treatment plan during your child’s orthodontic assessment, outlining goals, steps, and estimated timeframes.
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What is Invisalign?
Clear aligners like Invisalign are a popular orthodontic option for teeth straightening these days. At Dental Designs Clinic, our Invisalign+ For Kids treatment is designed for early intervention. This form of treatment uses a series of removable appliances (clear aligners) to gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions.
Benefits of Invisalign:
- Nearly invisible
- Removable for meals and brushing
- No food restrictions like with traditional braces
- Easier to maintain oral hygiene
It’s especially helpful for kids with mild to moderate alignment issues, crowded teeth, or spaces between teeth.
Aligners vs Braces: Which one is better?
Both dental braces and invisible aligners have pros and cons. Here’s a quick comparison:
|
Feature |
Traditional Braces |
Invisalign First |
|---|---|---|
|
Visibility |
Metal wires and brackets are visible |
Clear aligners are nearly invisible |
|
Comfort |
May cause irritation from metal brackets |
Smooth and gentle aligners that does not cause irritation |
|
Hygiene |
The braces are fixed to the teeth, so a thorough oral hygiene routine is required |
Easier to clean teeth as the clear aligners can be removed by patient |
|
Cost |
Lower than aligners such as Invisalign |
Higher than traditional braces |
What are the benefits of dental braces for children?
Beyond aesthetics, braces for children can:
- Improve oral health by preventing tooth decay, tooth loss, and gum recession
- Correct bad habits like thumb sucking or mouth breathing
- Reduce risk of jaw growth disharmonies and poor bite
- Enhance your child’s self-esteem with a confident smile
When supervised by an experienced kids orthodontist, early treatment sets the stage for a strong foundation of lifelong dental health.
How to care for teeth with braces?
Maintaining good oral care during orthodontic treatment is crucial. Encourage your child to:
- Brush after every meal using a fluoride toothpaste
- Use interdental brushes to clean around braces with metal brackets
- Avoid sticky foods, chewy candy, and food particles that may cling to brackets
- Visit for regular dental appointments and periodic adjustments
A child-friendly environment and a supportive team of orthodontists can make all the difference in creating a positive experience for young patients.
Conclusion
At Dental Designs Clinic, we offer a wide range of braces in Singapore, including ceramic braces, traditional metal braces, and Invisalign for kids, all tailored to your child’s unique dental needs. Whether you’re looking for a discreet, comfortable treatment experience or a fun way to personalise braces with braces colours, we’re here to help guide your child toward a beautiful smile. Learn more about our Invisalign Buddy program.
If you are looking for a dental clinic for kids, book an appointment with us for an orthodontic evaluation.