ProviderReliable Results for Children's Beautiful Smiles
Children's braces at Orthodontic Specialists of Lake Oswego are economical, durable, and more streamlined than ever before. This time-tested treatment helps correct misalignments and improve the health of young smiles.
Kids as young as seven may be candidates for braces depending on their stage of development and the nature and severity of their orthodontic issues. Braces can be used with a growing mouth of baby teeth and permanent teeth.
In many cases, early orthodontic intervention is recommended for children because it allows us to work with the development of your child's mouth, rather than against already-established issues later on. This generally means more conservative, straightforward treatment over time.
The Importance of Early Orthodontics for Kids
An orthodontic assessment around age seven allows your orthodontist to diagnose emerging issues and begin treatment to help minimize the need for more invasive treatments in the teen years. Early orthodontic treatment may involve braces for kids.
The Benefits of Braces for Kids
Your child's personality, lifestyle, and specific orthodontic condition will all factor into our treatment recommendation for braces or Invisalign clear aligners.
Efficiency
While it can be tempting to opt for clear aligners, certain types of teeth and jaw misalignments are more quickly and effectively treated with braces. This is because they are able to apply more force in the optimal direction. For kids who are reluctant to undergo orthodontic treatment, braces may mean they can get it over with faster.
Compliance to Treatment
Unlike clear aligners, braces are firmly affixed to the teeth and cannot be removed. This can be a benefit for kids who are not yet mature or patient enough to keep their aligners in as prescribed. Fixed braces can't be lost, and their durability makes them difficult to damage – all potential advantages for kids!
Aesthetics
While traditional metal braces don't have the discreet appearance of Invisalign aligners, they do offer an option for customization. Colored elastics can be added and changed throughout treatment. Your child can choose new colors at every adjustment appointment based on their mood, the seasons, or even their favorite sports teams!
Braces at Orthodontic Specialists of Lake Oswego
Traditional orthodontic braces use brackets, elastic bands, and wires to gradually shift and straighten teeth.
But the braces of today aren't the clunky, uncomfortable face-full-of-metal that you might be picturing from decades ago. Modern braces are more streamlined and more comfortable than ever before.