When It’s Time for Braces
Seeing a teenager with braces today is not unusual at all. In fact, it almost seems like a teenage rite of passage.
Often, we try to undertake preventive measures to reduce the need for braces altogether, or to accomplish some degree of correction so that braces can be applied for a minimal amount of time to “finish the job.”
Today’s braces are designed to enhance your smile with far less “metal mouth”!
We want to assist you in any way we can to make the transition from dentist to orthodontist as easy and painless as possible. Participating dentists in your area work with some exceptional orthodontists who will keep them “in the loop” and ensure that your child is well cared for in their practice as well.
When Dental Braces Are Needed
Sometimes, even after preventive orthodontic measures have been taken, your child may still need braces to achieve the maximum result. Usually, however, in this scenario, the time is greatly reduced due to the care already received.
At other times, although no treatment was deemed necessary at an earlier age, or appropriate treatment was not sought, braces may be recommended to treat a current condition.
Your dentists goal isn’t just to help improve your child’s smile – it’s to make sure that they see a smile every time he or she enters their office or an affiliate orthodontist’s office.
Today’s Braces Have Come a Long Way!
There are lots of options available for teenagers getting braces today. Traditional metal braces are thinner and smaller. The posts they attached to can also be clear, metal or a color, depending on the patient’s preference. In some cases, invisible braces can be used, particularly if the condition is not severe enough to warrant metal braces.
Orthodontic treatment generally lasts from 12 – 36 months, depending on the severity of the problem, movement of the teeth, oral hygiene and the patient’s willingness to adhere to all instructions. After the braces are removed, most patients wear a retainer to ensure that the teeth remain in their “corrected” position and do not shift.
Full cooperation throughout the braces “stage” can reduce the actual time your child needs to keep the braces on and will help achieve the goals discussed at the time of initial treatment.
