The Facts About Braces
Braces are utilized in correcting crooked and protruding teeth, and also for correcting the gapping between them. Teeth with improper spacing cannot be cleaned fully, and this includes the gum area. Such a situation can lead to problems like cavities and gingivitis.
Braces are needed when a person has a jaw which is misaligned, or who has many teeth crowded in a small mouth, or does not have a proper bite. Getting braces will help to straighten the teeth, which in turn will allow the teeth to get properly cleaned resulting in better dental health. This is especially helpful in the case of a child who will be able to maintain the required oral hygiene, thus preventing diseased gums and other problems.
What is the earliest age one can get dental braces?
Most people are concerned about the correct age as to when the treatment with dental braces should be started. A child should start visiting the dentist from age three so that the crowding and spacing of the teeth can be properly monitored. If the dentist senses a problem, the child is referred to an orthodontist.
In any case, it is important to get a full screening done with x-rays by an expert orthodontist when the child is seven years of age. The orthodontist will then chart out the required plan of treatment.
Before braces can be applied, the orthodontist may use a palatal expander to create room for permanent teeth. Such interventions may be used for two years before finally deciding on the use of braces. Most orthodontist agree that braces can be applied not before the child has reached at least eight years and some recommend that the child needs to wait till he reaches ten years so that many permanent teeth would have already formed.
Earlier Treatment is Wise
Younger children have a softer jaw, and hence, it is better to start orthodontic treatment early. When screening is done at seven years there are chances of detecting problems much sooner. Early detection means better use of interventions, which in turn will result in lesser time with braces. Children can get their braces off in a year's time if they have received proper treatment earlier.