Braces Options for Kids

Long Beach, CA – Braces are almost like a rite of passage for adolescents. Think of a young teen, and chances are good you conjure up an image of someone with braces on. But the good news for kids and teens getting braces today is that there are more options than ever before – today’s braces aren’t what they used to be.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces with metal brackets and wires are still one of the most commonly used options today. That’s because they are effective, efficient and the most budget-friendly. But metal braces are sleeker and more comfortable than ever before. They are made of high grade stainless steel and are low-profile, thus reducing the rubbing on the inside of the mouth. Additionally, many of the wires are heat activated, and can use your body’s temperature to activate the archwires and guide the teeth to their new locations. This is a major improvement for patient comfort, as cold drinks can help soften the wires if the patient experiences any discomfort after an adjustment appointment.

For those who may want a more discrete option, there is the option of traditional braces that use clear or ceramic brackets. These still utilize the standard wires, but the brackets will blend in better with the natural smile, offering a more cosmetic choice. This is a great option for older adolescents and teens who may be more self-conscious about wearing braces. Clear braces marry the efficiency of traditional metal braces with the cosmetics of other options.

Invisalign Teen

Invisalign Teen is a great option for teens who want a straighter smile, but without the hassle of brackets and wires. Invisalign works through a series of clear, comfortable, removable aligners that gently guide teeth to their new locations. The aligners are changed out every two weeks for a new set, and each one is carefully calibrated to guide the teeth to a precise location, with the end result being a beautiful smile. Teens love this option because the aligners are virtually invisible, and they are removable. That means no one will know you are even wearing them, and you don’t have to make adjustments to your diet or oral care routine.

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces, like Damon braces, are another option that many patients love. They use the same materials as traditional braces, however, without the elastic ties. A special clip holds the archwire in place, which keeps the wire active for a longer period of time, thus resulting in the reduced frequency of appointments. Self-ligating braces also place less pressure on the teeth when the wires are placed, resulting in a higher level of comfort for patients. As with traditional metal braces, self-ligating braces are available in metal and ceramic options.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces, like INBRACE, are an option for older patients, such as teens, who want to efficiency of traditional braces, but without anyone being able to see them. Lingual braces are metal braces that are placed on the tongue side of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from an outsider viewpoint. There are some drawbacks to this type, however – they can be harder to clean, and can take some time getting used to. Speech may be impaired for the first week as the tongue accommodates to having them inside the mouth.

There are more options than ever before when it comes to getting the smile you’ve always wanted. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the importance of seeing a board-certified orthodontist for your care. A well-trained orthodontist can properly diagnose your malocclusion, and discuss in detail all options available to ensure treatment leads to a beautiful and properly functioning smile.