Does my child need braces?
If your child needs braces, they’re in good company - almost a third of children in the UK will benefit from orthodontic treatment by the time they reach 18*.
As such, wondering whether or not your child needs braces is something a significant proportion of parents and carers will go through. You might notice their permanent teeth are growing in a crooked way, or that their bite isn’t as straight as it could be.
If this sounds familiar, you’ll be happy to hear that there are a number of choices available, from fixed metal braces to lingual braces and clear aligners. Children’s braces have come a long way over the past couple of decades, ensuring results that can be genuinely transformative.
At Total Orthodontics, we work with young people every day to straighten their smiles, and we see first-hand the difference that braces for kids can bring to their confidence, development and overall oral health.
Naturally, when it comes to the health of your child or teen, you may have questions around safety, comfort, effectiveness and more. Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions surrounding braces and aligners for children, and identify some of the most common signs that your child needs orthodontic treatment.
How can I tell if my child needs braces?
There are plenty of reasons why your dentist might recommend braces for your child. Most of these will be to do with the way their permanent teeth have grown. For example, crooked teeth patterns, overcrowding, gaps and misaligned bites are extremely common, and can cause young people to feel self-conscious about their smiles.
It’s important to note that your child’s teeth and gums need to be in a good state of health before any orthodontic treatment takes place. As such, your dentist or dental hygienist may need to treat your child before they get braces.
Some of the most common alignment issues with children’s teeth include the following and require the expertise of an orthodontist.
There are other reasons why children might need braces, such as:
If you’re unsure whether or not your child needs braces or want to get some advice on how braces can improve the above issues and more, speak to your dentist or your local Total Orthodontics practice. They’ll be able to make informed decisions regarding your child’s teeth and walk you through the many options available.
Please be aware that NHS orthodontic treatment is only available to under 18's if deemed clinically necessary.
Total Orthodontics: your child’s smile is in the safest hands
At Total Orthodontics, we strive to bring the best results and straighter, more confident smiles to all our patients, of all ages.
We have practices right across the UK, and our specialist orthodontists are highly qualified to ensure your child gets the best care and results that truly speak for themselves. With over 20 years of experience and access to the latest orthodontics technology and approaches, our team is ready to put your child’s smile in the spotlight.
Book a free consultation today and see what Total Orthodontics can do for you and your child.
Our orthodontists
*Form Terms and conditions:
1.Free consultations are to discuss options and suitability for treatment. You may require a more in-depth clinical examination or diagnostic tests before treatment options can be discussed. There may be a charge for such examination or test, payable by you. The clinician will discuss this with you before any such examination or test takes place, which may be done during the same appointment as your free consultation.
2.Children under 18 can be referred for a free NHS assessment, subject to availability of appointments. Private consultations for children are excluded from this offer and will be charged at our standard rate but the charge will be refunded to you in full if the child commences private treatment following the consultation.
3. Consultations subject to availability.
4. Free consultations available at participating practices only.
Total Orthodontics and Bupa Dental Care are trading names of Oasis Dental Care Limited. Registered in England Wales No: 00478127. Registered office: Bupa Dental Care, Vantage Office Park, Old Gloucester Road, Hambrook, Bristol, United Kingdom BS16 1GW.
