Last month, Roseman Dental launched an informative monthly newsletter called Dental 360. The newsletter is designed to keep patients informed about good dental hygiene and help them stay on top of their overall health.
Rachael Thomas wrote an insightful Dental 360 article that discussed the importance of straight teeth. Although it’s quite common to see a child wearing braces, many might assume straight teeth are simply a cosmetic preference. On the contrary, Thomas explained that properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, and may help a person avoid other health conditions. Misaligned teeth can also make chewing difficult which may lead to pain in the shoulders and back, headaches, or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. A bright, straight smile goes a long way to build confidence, which is reason enough for a parent to consider braces for his or her child.
A dentist can help you decide if a trip to the orthodontist would be beneficial for your child. According to the article, the American Academy of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children visit an orthodontist for the first time no later than age 7. Most children will begin their orthodontic treatment between ages 9 and 14 depending on their individual needs but well after most of his or her baby teeth have been replaced by adult teeth. Seeing an orthodontist early on will help to identify oral health concerns. Even children younger than 7 may show signs that braces would be beneficial.
Signs that could indicate your child needs braces:
- Early, late or irregular loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
- Teeth that meet abnormally or not at all
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Protruding teeth
- Cheek biting or biting into the roof of the mouth
- Difficulty speaking
- Jaws that make sounds, shift, protrude, or are recessed
- Mouth breathing
- Poor dental hygiene or nutrition
Types of Braces
Orthodontic treatment creates changes in jawbones, facial bones, and soft tissue while teeth are moved into their new positions. There are several fixed or removable appliance options available for treatment. Depending on your child’s treatment needs, an orthodontist may require traditional metal braces, ceramic (clear) braces, or Invisalign®.
Metal Braces: Metal braces are made from high-grade stainless steel and provide the highest-quality treatment. Metal braces consist of bands, wires, and brackets, and are now much more attractive than they were many years ago.
Ceramic (Clear) Braces: Made of a clear ceramic material, ceramic braces allow for a more discreet option that includes bands, wires, and brackets.
Invisalign®: Invisalign® is a removable aligner made of a clear material that fits over your teeth. This is the most discreet option, but Invisalign® is only available to those with specific orthodontic bite problems.
Generally speaking, most patients will need 12 to 24 months to complete treatment. The cost is dependent on several variables with the average cost of orthodontic treatment for children ranging between $2,000 – $7000. If you’d like to speak with an orthodontist, the team at Roseman Dental’s Nevada location is ready to lend their expertise!
Roseman Dental – Orthodontic Clinic
4 Sunset Way
Henderson, Nevada 89014
Phone: 702-968-5222
Website: www.rosemandental.com