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Braces

The Ultimate Guide to Braces for Kids

Kids Kids

Braces for kids can be a fun, magical journey.

Braces are a great way to improve your child’s smile. But as a parent, we know you likely have a few questions about braces for kids. In this article we’ll provide an overview of treatment and what you should know when setting up their initial consultation and before they begin treatment!

Braces are a much more common option today than 30 years ago. Braces have grown in popularity and have been seen on celebrities like Kylie Jenner to athletes such as David Beckham.

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Braces for Kids - Corpus Christi Orthodontist - El Paso Orthodontist

We make the process easy for parents.

Does my child need braces?

Genetics, sugary diets and lack of fluoride contribute greatly to the growing demand for braces. Chances are, if you have a gut feeling that your child’s teeth could be straigher or they’re growing improperly – your child should see an orthodontist for an evaluation.

These are the most common dental issues we see:

Early loss of baby teeth
Improper bite and functional chewing issues
Heavy mouth breathing
Current or previous thumb-sucking
Overcrowded teeth
Jaws that shift, protrude, or recede
Teeth that do not meet normally
Disproportionate jaw
— What’s the right age for braces?

This isn’t a perfect age for braces. Orthodontists make a decision based on circumstance, goals, and anticipated outcomes instead of age. It really is a case-by-case basis and not a rule.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommend that children have their first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. Some kids come when they’re 6, some kids when they’re 10, and some don’t come well into their teenage years or early adulthood.

First visit, no need for anxiety

What happens during the first orthodontic visit?

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During your child’s first exam, our orthodontists go through a comprehensive exam of their teeth and jaw. We will also ask your child questions concerning their bite, their ability to chew and swallow, as well as any additional concerns they have at the time.

We’ll follow up that initial discussion with x-rays of the mouth and teeth to observe tooth positioning and identify problem areas, if present, that orthodontics can correct.

Explore your options

What options for braces are there?

Traditional Metal Braces

The most common option. The option uses steel ties and brackets to reposition teeth. Kids love to choose colored bands to personalize their braces.

Learn more about types of braces

Invisalign

Some kids are candidates from Invisalign Teen which gives them the ability to wear clear removable aligners, to discreetly shift their smile.

Learn more about Invisalign
— A big consideration is cost

How much do braces cost?

Many factors can influence the cost of braces. We cover these factors you’ll want to consider below. All of our treatment plans cover the cost of monthly appointments, continued care, and adjustments.

The only aspect of care we can’t plan for is damage. If your child damages their braces from improper care, you may need to pay additional fees to repair their braces.

In the end, it’s not about cost. It’s about getting the right treatment for your child when they need it – or if they even need braces. Our consultation is free, we have no-interest financing available, and we love helping kids feel more confident with their appearance.

Most dental insurance plans consider braces to be a cosmetic procedure. For this reason, it can be difficult to find a carrier that covers the cost of braces, regardless of age. If you do get coverage for orthodontia, most carrier limit the coverage to traditional metal braces.

SmileLife Orthodontics realizes this and has developed an in-house financial plan where we can help 100% of our patients get the care they need and deserve.

Another reason to consider SmileLife Orthodonitcs is our experience. Not every orthodontist has experience with each kind of braces and, depending on your child’s alignment needs, the types available to you could be limiting – and additional costs.

Our orthodontists are leaders in orthodontics and can help with all types of braces to maximize cost effectiveness.

Metal Braces
Ceramic Braces
Lingual Braces
Invisalign

Most braces are worn for 24 months, but the length of time your child will need to wear braces depends on how severe the misalignment of their teeth is, and what type of braces are used.

Lastly, our most frequently asked questions.

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The American Academy of Orthodontists recommends children see an orthodontist for the first time around age seven for an evaluation to determine whether braces are needed. While there is no age when a child “should” get braces, people who get braces as children rather than waiting until adulthood get better results in less time.

We’ve developed a glossary of terms to help parents and children understand their treatment better.

Orthodontic Glossary of Terms

Braces can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $7,000 depending on the type of braces used and the length of treatment needed, among other factors.

If your child qualifies for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program, the state government may pay for your children to get braces. You will need to research what is required locally.

Braces do not hurt. Some people feel pressure, but the procedure is not painful.

Usually, braces are worn for 18 to 24 months. Sometimes, braces need to be worn longer. Occasionally, braces are needed for shorter periods of time. Talk with your orthodontist about how long your child needs to wear braces.

Many dental insurance plans partially cover braces for children under 18. If your insurance does not cover braces, you can purchase a supplemental plan specifically for orthodontia.

Retainers are the cheapest method for straightening teeth. However, they only work in cases of mild misalignment. Most people need braces to correct misalignment.

For most patients, braces take between six months and two years to properly straighten teeth. Your child’s orthodontist can tell you how long your child needs to wear braces.

The easiest foods for your child to eat after having braces installed for the first time are things like pudding, yogurt, bread (without seeds), pasta, soft vegetables, and soup or broth.

Yes! Braces improve the jawline by making your face more symmetrical, as they correct any misalignment. Braces restore your natural jaw appearance.

The most common side effects experienced by individuals with braces are:

  • Mild discomfort or irritation
  • Jaw pain
  • Difficulty eating
  • Cavities
  • Decalcification of teeth

Some people only need to wear braces for six months, but the most common treatment time is 18 to 24 months. Some children need to wear braces for up to 36 months to correct severe misalignment.

Yes, braces can change your child’s face. The changes that braces make are good changes! Because braces fix alignment issues, the effect is a more symmetrical, natural appearance.