Look at prom pictures or yearbooks from the ‘50s and the ‘60s, and you will probably see many smiles heavily framed with metal braces. Today, it is something that is still fairly common, but parents have their hesitations.
Why the change?
Children today tend to get braces at a much earlier age—some with special problems even start going to orthodontists at 7 years old or younger even before their permanent teeth begin to develop.
Orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, but it’s easier, faster, and less expensive when done earlier in life. Early orthodontic treatment can also eliminate the need for surgery or teeth extractions, which results in an overall better look.
Early Orthodontic Treatment
The best time for an orthodontic intervention is when the child reaches the age of 6 or 7. At this point, the teeth are still developing and the jaw is still growing. That means certain dental conditions, such as crowding, underbite, crossbites, and protruding front teeth, may be easier to address.
It’s possible to manipulate tooth eruption in better positions before anything permanent erupts. More treatment is usually needed later on, but it could be shorter and less involved. Simply put, early orthodontic intervention can simplify future treatment in select cases. This is commonly known as two-phase treatment.
Acceptable Braces for Kids
To make braces more fun and acceptable for children, many dentists use brightly coloured elastics, which are the small rubber bands holding the wires to the braces. Every few months or so, dentists change them and children can choose the colour of their elastics according to a holiday colour scheme or their school colours.
More kids today, however, prefer clear braces, such as Invisalign and Incognito lingual braces, as they are practically invisible. These clear straighteners also have no brackets, bands, or wires that can trap food.
Here at Solas Orthodontics, we offer early interceptive braces, as well as Invisalign and Incognito braces in Perth. Our treatment options are minimally invasive. Book a consultation with us today for a straight, healthy smile that can help boost your child’s confidence.