Teen Braces & Childrens Braces
Many teens are ambivalent about getting braces. On one hand, they like the idea of perfect teeth, but on the other hand, they are nervous about whether the braces will cause pain and discomfort. The good news is that the placement of orthodontic braces is not at all painful, and the end result will be a beautiful straight smile.
Although patients of any age can benefit from orthodontic braces, they tend to work much quicker on pre-teens and teenagers since they are still experiencing jaw growth. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that kids should first see an orthodontist around the age of seven years-old. An orthodontic examination may be beneficial before age seven if facial or oral irregularities are noted.
Causes Of Misaligned Teeth
Misaligned teeth often cause problems speaking, biting and chewing. Most irregularities are genetic or occur as a result of developmental issues. Conversely, some irregularities are acquired or greatly exacerbated by certain habits and behaviors such as:
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Prolonged pacifier use
- Poor oral hygiene
- Poor nutrition
What’s Involved With Teen Braces?
The orthodontist initially conducts a visual examination of the child’s teeth. This will be accompanied by panoramic X-rays, study models (bite impressions), and computer generated images of the head and neck. These preliminary assessments are sometimes known as the “planning phase” because they aid the orthodontist in making a diagnosis and planning the most effective treatment.
In many cases, the orthodontist will recommend “fixed” orthodontic braces for a teens or younger aged child. Fixed braces cannot be lost, forgotten or removed at will, which means that treatment is completed more quickly. Removable appliances may also be utilized, which are less intrusive and are generally used to treat various types of defects.
Here is a brief overview of some of the main types of orthodontic appliances used on children:
- Fixed braces – Braces are comprised of brackets that are affixed to each individual tooth and an archwire that connects the brackets. The brackets are usually made of metal, ceramic, or a clear synthetic material which is less noticeable to the naked eye. After braces have been applied, the child will have regular appointments to have the braces adjusted by the orthodontist. Orthodontic elastic bands are often added to the braces to aid in the movement of specific teeth.
- Headgear – This type of appliance is most useful to treat developmental irregularities. A headgear is a custom-made appliance attached to wire that aids in tooth movement. A headgear is intended to be worn for 12-20 hours each day and must be worn as recommended to achieve the intended result.
- Orthodontic Retainers – Orthodontic Retainers are typically utilized in the third phase (retention phase). When the original malocclusion has been treated with braces, it is essential that the teeth do not regress back to the original misalignment. Wearing a retainer ensures that teeth maintain their proper alignment and gives the jawbone around the teeth a chance to stabilize.
Contact Firouz Orthodontics
Firouz Orthodontics is an affordable orthodontist located in West Los Angeles, Dr. Maurice Firouz is devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile at a fair price. We use state-of-the-art Orthodontic procedures and Orthodontic equipment providing the best orthodontic services in West Los Angeles such as Invisalign, Invisalign for Teens, Clear Braces, Damon Braces and others that will help give you a beautiful, long lasting smile!
Dr. Maurice Firouz and the team at Firouz Orthodontics are expert Invisalign Doctors. If you have any questions pertaining to Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, braces and clear braces in Los Angeles CA, 90025 zip code area, Los Angeles County CA, West LA, Brentwood CA, Santa Monica CA or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Maurice Firouz contact Firouz Orthodontics at: (310) 447-5790.Now performing Virtual Consults!
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