Braces for Children and teens
Orthodontic treatment can be really beneficial to children and teenagers. A healthy, straight smile is key to overall oral health and can support proper functionality, like eating and speaking.
For some children, braces are a necessary part of their dental health plan and can help resolve issues such as over/underbites, crowding and misalignments.
Types of braces for children and teens
At Braces & Faces Orthodontics, we believe that early action can reduce or remove the need for complex treatment later in life. We recommend children visit an orthodontist around age 7. This is typically when adult teeth have started to erupt and we can get a better idea of the position and function of the new teeth.
For those children that need a little assistance, we provide a range of braces that can help get them on the right path.
Metal Braces
Fixed metal braces, also known as ‘train tracks’ are one of the more common braces for young people. They consist of small metal brackets which attach to the front of the teeth and are connected by a thin metal wire. This wire gently applies pressure to your teeth to guide them into position.
How do they work?
Small metal brackets are glued to the front surface of each tooth and are linked together by a thin wire, known as an archwire. This wire runs between the small brackets and is held in place by small elastic bands. The archwire moves the teeth by applying gentle pressure to them. Your child could personalise theirs by choosing what colour elastic bands are fitted.
Ceramic Braces
Some young people are worried about the appearance of braces. Ceramic braces allow your child or teen to achieve the same results you see with traditional metal braces but with a more discreet look.
How do they work?
Ceramic braces work the same as metal ones, using brackets and wires to move the teeth. However, these brackets are made of clear ceramic, giving them a softer look. There are also options for aesthetic white archwires and transparent elastic bands, making our ceramic braces a more discreet alternative to metal braces. This option is particularly popular with teenagers who want remarkable results without compromising on image.
What are the benefits of Fixed braces for kids and teens?
- They are an incredibly successful form of orthodontic treatment
- They can tend to all types of orthodontic cases; crowding, spacing and over/under bites.
- They can help create room for erupting teeth.
- Fixed metal braces are a more affordable orthodontic treatment option, where as fixed ceramic braces provide you with the same clinical advantages as traditional metal braces but with the added benefit of their subtle design.
To find out if your child or teen is a good candidate for metal braces, book your FREE consultation today.
Skip the NHS waiting lists
To qualify for orthodontic treatment under the NHS, there is a strict criteria you must meet in order to qualify for treatment. Even if you do qualify for treatment , there are often long waiting lists. At Braces & Faces Dental Centre we can treat a wide range of cases from the very mild (where you may not have qualified for NHS treatment) to the more moderate and severe cases (and you simply don't want to wait on the waiting list) Our specialist orthodontist can get treatment started straight away. We have a variety of payment plans to suit your budget.
What’s next?
If you need help deciding whether to choose Invisalign®, Ceramic or Metal Braces for your child or teen, book a consultation with our team today, who will be happy to answer all of your questions.