Call Us Today: (02) 4501 7930
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Call Us Today: (02) 4501 7930

Orthodontics for Children

If your child’s teeth are coming in crooked, or if they’re developing a bad bite, orthodontics can help. Orthodontics can help children’s jaws develop properly so that they can enjoy a more balanced bite in the future. Orthodontics can even help them enjoy better oral health throughout life.
 
If you are considering getting orthodontics for your child in Hawkesbury, please call (02) 4501 7930 or book an appointment today with a family dentist at Riverlands Dental in North Richmond.
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Why Children Need Braces

Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment recommended for children. Braces can apply the force necessary to encourage children’s jaws to grow and help move their teeth into position. Children might need braces if they develop bite conditions such as:

  • Underbite
  • Overbite
  • Crossbite
  • Crooked teeth
  • Crowded teeth
  • Gapped teeth
 
These days, most children are likely to experience some form of crowding or other bite problem when their jaws are developing. It’s for the same reason that most need their wisdom teeth removed: we eat fewer hard foods, so our jaws don’t develop as much.

The right time for a child to get braces varies. It is often between the ages of four and seven. However, some children might benefit from waiting. At your child’s annual visits, we will assess their teeth and recommend the right time for braces.

Invisalign isn’t approved for children. However, some teens can use that system.

Benefits of Braces as a Child

There are many good reasons to get braces as a child. Getting braces at this time:

  • Can be easier and faster
  • Sets up teeth for future health
  • Builds confidence when young
  • Results can be maintained for life
 
Children’s jaws are already developing, so they respond well to braces. Their teeth tend to move more easily, which can mean less discomfort and a faster procedure.
 
Straight teeth are easier to clean, so once your child has straightened their teeth, they can have an easier time of cleaning their teeth to keep them healthy.
 
Crooked teeth can make it hard for kids at critical points in social development. Getting teeth straightened early can help build more confidence.
 
Once children get their teeth straightened, they can maintain these results for life by wearing a retainer.
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Challenges of Braces for a Child

However, there are some challenges associated with orthodontics for children. Children with braces face:

  • Hygiene challenges
  • Diet restrictions
  • Risk of injury
 
Cleaning braces is hard, and it’s especially difficult for children. When a child has braces, parents will have to monitor them to make sure they are cleaning properly.
 
Diet restrictions related to braces can include some of your child’s favorite foods. Parents will have to monitor their children to make sure they’re not eating the foods they’re supposed to avoid.
 
Children are very active at play, and that means they can be at risk for more injuries related to braces. Usually, these are minor injuries related to unstructured play. For organized competition, we recommend a mouthguard to protect your child’s mouth and teeth.

Talk to Us About Braces

If you are considering braces for your child in Hawkesbury, we can help you understand the benefits and drawbacks.
 
Please call (02) 4501 7930 or book an appointment today with a family dentist at Riverlands Dental in North Richmond.
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