Orland Park, IL — Braces are often seen as a rite of passage for many children. Do you remember the days when having a mouth full of metal was just part of growing up? Braces play a crucial role in aligning your child’s bite, ensuring their smile works properly. They also help give your child a beautifully straight smile, boosting their confidence as they face the world.

It’s recommended that children have their first orthodontic consultation around the age of seven. At this early appointment, the orthodontist will assess how your child’s smile is developing and provide guidance on any future treatment that might be needed.

If your child needs orthodontic treatment, there are several fixed or removable appliances available today:

These are the traditional braces most people think of when they hear the word “braces.” These are a type of fixed orthodontic appliances. Modern metal braces are sleeker and more comfortable than before. Made from high-quality stainless steel, they include brackets attached to each tooth, with wires threaded through them. These wires apply the necessary pressure to move the teeth into their correct positions.

Benefits:

• Most cost-effective option
• Durable and strong
• Effective for treating all types of malocclusions

Drawbacks:

• Most noticeable of all treatment options
• Metal brackets and wires can cause some discomfort

Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces, but the brackets are made from tooth-colored materials. This helps them blend in with your child’s teeth, making them less visible.

Benefits:

• Less conspicuous than metal braces
• Stain-resistant ceramic brackets
• Suitable for treating various malocclusions

Drawbacks:

• Can be more expensive than metal braces
• Ceramic brackets are less durable and may break

Clear Aligners use a series of custom-made, transparent aligners. Each set of aligners is designed to move your child’s teeth into the desired position. These aligners are a type of removable retainers. They’re removable, which makes maintaining oral hygiene easy and means there are no dietary restrictions.

Benefits:

• Discreet appearance
• Removable for easy cleaning
• No need for dietary adjustments

Drawbacks:

• Requires responsibility and compliance for success
• Not ideal for every patient
• Sometimes more expensive

Choosing the right braces option for your child is best done when you see an orthodontist. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but your orthodontist can guide you through the options and help find what’s best for your child.

To schedule a complimentary consultation, call Orland Park Orthodontics today.