Does Your Preteen Need Braces?

12 May 2020

Maybe you and your spouse wore braces when you were a kid. Now you have children of your own and you have realized that your first child to reach the preteen years is following in your footsteps. It might be that you have already made an appointment for your child to see an orthodontist and plans are in motion. On the other hand, maybe you are still undecided about which avenue to follow. If that's the case, you've come to the right place. Read on for ideas that might prove to be very helpful.

1. Metal Braces

Did you wear metal braces when you were a kid? If you did, you probably already realize that your child might be teased or bullied. If you decide to go with metal braces, help your child to understand that teasing just comes with the territory. Remind them that many other people go through the same teasing but they learned the value of never making somebody else feel bad with ridiculous and mean words.

Here are other things to consider about metal braces:

• Metal braces will more than likely be a less expensive choice.
• Metal braces offer excellent control of how the teeth will move because the metal brackets and wires are solidly fixed into place.
• Because metal is strong, the braces will be durable and they probably won't break.

2. Invisalign Treatments

Maybe you have adult friends and extended family members that wear invisible braces. If so, you might not have even realized that the braces were in place or that the individual wearing them was having his or her teeth straightened. There are benefits to selecting Invisalign treatments for your child. Here are a few benefits to keep in mind:

• Invisible braces are easier to clean than metal braces.
• Your child will probably have fewer office visits.
• The invisible braces will more than likely be more comfortable than metal braces.
• Your child will look better than if they wore metal braces.

Whether you decide on metal braces or Invisalign, your child needs to brush and floss their teeth consistently. Help them realize that cavities are just waiting to form, even after having a snack. With both metal braces or invisible treatments, it will be important to keep follow-up appointments. In addition, the retainer your child is given after the braces are off is a super important part of keeping your child's teeth straight.