6 Things To Consider Before Your Kid Gets Braces

Thinking about braces for your kid? If you’re like most of us, the decision process can feel overwhelming. So many things to think about.

Stop!

Before you go down a mind-boggling (and possibly terrifying) Dr. Internet rabbit hole, read through this list. It will help guide your decision-making so you can figure out how to do this whole braces thing.

1. How exactly do braces work?

Science has been hard at work, y’all. If your idea of braces is clunky metal brackets and head gear, you’re working with an outdated model. For one thing, modern braces look nothing like the cartoonish “tin grins” we grew up with. The advances in orthodontic treatment over the last 10 to 20 years are pretty incredible. Technological advances mean orthodontic issues can be fixed in less time with less discomfort and better outcomes.

Self-ligation, a fancy word for braces that are designed to allow the teeth to move more naturally and requires fewer trips to the orthodontist for adjustments, is one technology that’s been a huge step forward for orthodontists and their patients. Instead of using heavy force, braces like the Damon Braces System are designed to use light physiologic forces to move teeth with less friction than traditional brackets; which tightly hold to the wire with a tiny rubber band. Friction in life slows everything down, including tooth movement, and with less friction comes potentially faster treatment and improved comfort.

Today’s orthodontists have a much better understanding of the biology of tooth movement as well as how braces can shape a person’s facial profile for decades to come. These aren’t your mama’s braces!

2. What’s the right age?

If it seems to you that kids are getting braces younger and younger these days, you’re not wrong. Orthodontists have learned a lot about the benefits of early intervention. The American Association of Orthodontists now recommends all children be evaluated by an orthodontist before the age of seven. If your child sees her dentist regularly, there’s a good chance she will be able to recommend when evaluation should take place.

The right age for your child will depend on a variety of different factors. And the best person to help you make that determination is an orthodontist. If you have questions, don’t wait. You don’t need a referral from a dentist to schedule a consultation. Orthodontists are trained to diagnose, prevent and correct a variety of issues that a dentist may not even see.

3. Can we afford it?

Once you’ve had an evaluation, start doing your homework. It’s a good idea to research costs, payment options and insurance coverage to determine how to make braces fit your family’s budget. Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for orthodontic treatment so if you have it, start by calling your carrier. Most doctors offer a number of different payment plans to make treatment affordable. Some even provide in-office financing for as long as 24 months interest-free.

Braces are not a small financial commitment. But just like tutors and sports, they’re an investment with obvious, long-lasting benefits for your child well beyond childhood.

4. How does your child feel about braces?

Just like adults, kids sometimes have fears about braces that are built on outdated or inaccurate information. You can have a discussion with the ortho team to help your child understand the whole process. And even though you may have spent three years rocking a brace face, your child is likely to complete treatment in under two years.

If it’s appearance he’s worried about, make sure he knows that there are lots of options for that too. In addition to traditional metal braces, there are tooth-colored ceramic braces, clear plastic aligners that can be removed periodically, and even nearly visible appliances that fit behind the teeth instead of in front. Doctors using the Damon Braces System can answer any questions your child may have about how his mouth will look during and after treatment.

5. How do I find an orthodontist?

A good place to start is online with the HealthySmileIQ orthodontist finder. Just type your zip code into the orthodontist locator and, look at that, options. Friends and family are also a great source of information. And don’t rule out social media. People are always happy to share stories of their good and not so good experiences. Plus, this guide full of tips on how to find an orthodontist is super helpful. Even after you’ve got a few names, it’s worth putting in the work and finding out as much as you can about each doctor’s education and experience.

6. The long term benefits

A lot of us are still stuck in the mindset that braces are a cosmetic fix. We tend to think of them as an option based on appearance. And a healthy smile definitely makes anyone feel better about the way they look. But braces can actually be an important part of your child’s overall health, from proper biting and chewing, alignment of teeth and jaw, and even easier breathing.

Like any choice related to kids and health, you’re doing yourself a favor by getting all the information you can. It’s worth the time and effort it takes to find the right doctor, the right smile, and the right treatment.

Find out more about the Damon Signature Smile and which treatment option is right for your family here.