The decision to get braces is a big step at any age, but for kids, braces can be particularly daunting. The good news is that in recent years, the technology behind braces for children has made enormous leaps; we now have different braces for children and more comfortable options available, so that the impact treatment has on your child's life can be minimal.

Regardless of the types of braces you're considering for your child, here's some general tips to help make the transition a smooth one — and prepare your child for their journey towards a spectacular smile.

Fixed Braces - the step by step process

Fixed metal braces are a common, traditional treatment option for children with significant issues in the alignment of their teeth. Before your child gets their braces, it's important that you both understand the process.

Step 1
Your orthodontist will take X-rays, photos and plaster impressions of your child's teeth and jaw, which will shape the design of their braces. If there is overcrowding evident, some teeth may be removed to create space for permanent teeth to shift and straighten.

Step 2
At the next appointment, your child will be fitted with tiny plastic separators between their molars. Separators will remain in place for around a week to create space for the molar bands in your child's braces.

Step 3
At the next visit, the main part of the braces (the bands and brackets) are bonded to your child’s teeth. This is the trickiest time for your child, as it will feel a bit strange and uncomfortable at first.

Step 4
Your child will return to the orthodontist every 4 to 8 weeks for gradual adjustments to be made to the braces, and to track the progress of their teeth.

Step 5
The braces will remain in place for an average of 18 months (but can be anywhere from 1 to 3 years). Once braces are removed, your child will need to wear retainers at night for the next few months, to stop their teeth moving back to their original position.

Removable braces — greater freedom

When only minor corrections are required, different types of braces for children — such as Invisalign treatment — can provide a more flexible alternative. Often referred to as ‘invisible braces’, Invisalign ^® uses a series of clear, custom made aligners that gradually move your child’s teeth into the correct position.

At the start of Invisalign treatment, we use 3D imaging technology to create custom moulds of your child’s mouth. These are used to guide the shape of their aligners. The aligners will arrive in one set with a new aligner set to be changed fortnightly in your own home so you’re likely to spend less time visiting the orthodontist overall. Visits to the orthodontist might involve fitting anchors for bands, and monitoring the progress of the treatment. Invisalign treatment can be quicker than other types of braces; most patients will wear their aligners for an average of 12 to 14 months.

One of the best things about removable braces like Invisalign is that they offer greater freedom — removing those initial hesitations you may have in considering braces for children. While the aligners should be worn for the majority of the day and night, they can be taken out when your child eats, brushes or flosses their teeth. It means there are no foods that they can’t eat!!

What to do before braces are applied:

Talk to your child

Braces are a big investment for parents, but they’re also a huge commitment for your child. All different types of braces require ongoing maintenance and can mean that for the time being, certain foods will need to be avoided. So before any style of braces are applied, it’s essential that you talk to your child and and explain the full process. Make sure they understand that looking after their braces well can mean a speedier treatment time, less discomfort — and don’t forget to remind them how fantastic they’ll look when it’s over!

Get a general tune-up

Fix any simple tooth or gum issues at your dentist before the orthodontist applies braces. This may include fixing cavities, checking for gum problems or conducting a professional clean. For more information on general oral health, visit the NSW Health website.

Explore payment options

Braces for children are usually covered by private health insurance, so long as their policy includes standard orthodontic work. However, at Inner West Orthodontics we can set up a personalised payment plan to make kids braces affordable, with no hidden fees,interest free. We also reward you with a discount if you’re able to pay upfront at the commencement of treatment.

Know what to do once you get home

Make sure you ask your orthodontist about any questions or concerns you may have about how you and your child should care for their braces once you get home. For instance, what should you do in an emergency if something breaks or snaps? What steps can you take to ensure they avoid problematic foods while still getting the right nutrients? How should braces be cleaned? Your orthodontist will provide you with lots of information to take home with you, but don’t be afraid to ask if you’re unsure.

If you're not sure if your child is ready for braces, or would like to know more about how to prepare your child for them, contact us at Inner West Orthodontics for a chat. We also provide a consultation service to assess what kind of treatment is best for your child, which you can book right now.