TEENS & CORRECTIVE BRACES
Your child might need corrective braces for many reasons. Their teeth might be crooked, overlapped, overcrowded or a victim of ‘bad bite’ (otherwise known as malocclusion). Malocclusion is a discrepancy in the sizes of the top and bottom jaws. When the upper jaw is bigger than the lower jaw, it’s called an overbite. When the lower jaw is bigger, it’s called an under-bite.
The reason why you must take your child to a dentist for regular checkups becomes even more important because the dentist is usually the one who points out your child’s teeth problems and nip them in the bud.
When determining what kind of braces your child might need, a mold is placed inside the mouth of the child that makes a replica of the teeth, that then helps decide what kind of treatment is required. The basic function of the braces is normally to hold the teeth together until they get into proper placement within their respective inside jaw and also within the gums, depends really on the type of treatment it requires.
Most braces are made with wires and rubber bands. The wires help the teeth move freely while the rubber band helps align them properly. Apart from these types of braces, metal clear braces are also used. Some kids might need some extra support when it comes down to different methods of treatments, like a headgear might be placed attached with the back teeth, pushing them back so that more space can be made for the teeth in front. Even when your child has had the braces on, they still have to visit the dentist for regular checkups.
How long your child might have to wear the braces depends really on the kind of treatment they’re undergoing. Normally the standard average duration is 2 years. Eating while your child has braces on takes some time to get used to, as the food might get stuck in the wires, hence your child will have to remember to must brush their teeth after meals. Avoiding certain food is recommended like sodas, popcorn, sticky candies and gums etc.
Should your child complains of tooth ache because of the braces, worry not, over the counter pain killers will help. If any of the wires from brace are sticking out, don’t waste any time in contacting your dentist.
Corrective braces not only help in returning a good smile for your kid but they also help maintain good oral health for them. So make sure that you’re taking your kid to the dentist for a regular check up, so that it can be pointed out should your child needs corrective braces.