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Are Orthodontics Safe for Children?

Posted on April 11, 2023

kids braces

While some people don’t start orthodontics until later in life, many children have benefited from kids braces and other treatments. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, children should see an orthodontist by age seven. If you have any worries about the safety of orthodontics, here’s what you need to know.

Orthodontics Can Prevent More Serious Problems

While orthodontics has cosmetic benefits, it can also prevent issues that could seriously impact your child’s health. When teeth are extremely crooked, it can lead to jaw problems. In addition to being painful, these problems can make it hard for the child to eat. Orthodontics can correct and prevent issues that could harm your child.

It Can Prevent Tooth Decay

Although brushing and flossing when wearing braces can be more difficult, orthodontics can ultimately reduce the risk of cavities and tooth decay! It’s hard to thoroughly brush teeth when crooked, and children may be unable to floss between teeth if they’re too close together. Orthodontics will help your child properly care for their teeth as they age.

Some Oral Health Issues Are Easier to Fix in Childhood

Putting off orthodontic treatment could make an issue harder to address. When children are young, their bones are more flexible. That makes correcting alignment issues with braces and other orthodontics easier. Now could be the best time to fix your child’s teeth and prevent issues later.

Treatments Are Often Split into Phases

If your child still has some baby teeth, you may feel it’s too early to start treatment. It’s possible to split the treatment into different phases so that children always receive age-appropriate care. The first phase helps prepare the mouth for permanent teeth, while the second phase corrects issues with permanent teeth. Splitting treatment into phases could keep your child from losing permanent teeth.

It’s Possible to Monitor Issues

When you take your child to the doctor, they’ll check for signs of problems. If the doctor spots an issue but doesn’t believe it’s the right time to start treatment, they can monitor it over time. That way, they can start interventions when appropriate for your child.

Braces and other treatments are a safe and effective way to correct many issues. With the guidance of an orthodontist, you’ll have the information you need to make choices that will improve your child’s health. Contact SmileyVille Braces today if you want to schedule an orthodontist appointment for your child!