Giving Young Smiles the Best Dental Care With Child Orthodontics
Children’s orthodontics focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting dental and jaw alignment issues in growing children. Early orthodontic care can help guide proper tooth development, correct bite problems, and create the space needed for permanent teeth to come in properly. By identifying and addressing concerns at a young age, treatment can often be simpler, more effective, and may even reduce the need for more extensive work later in life. With a range of modern options and a gentle, child-friendly approach, children’s orthodontics helps set the foundation for a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
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Why Is Orthodontic Treatment Important For Children?
Orthodontic treatment in children plays a vital role in promoting healthy dental development and preventing long-term issues with the teeth and jaws. As a child grows, their bones and teeth are still developing, making it an ideal time to detect and correct problems early on. Conditions like crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites can affect how a child eats, speaks, and breathes, and may lead to uneven wear on teeth or jaw discomfort if left untreated.
Early orthodontic evaluation (usually around age 7) allows a dentist to spot any developing concerns and decide if and when treatment is needed. In many cases, early intervention can simplify future treatment, reduce the need for tooth extractions, and help guide permanent teeth into better positions as they emerge.
Beyond function, orthodontic treatment also boosts a child’s confidence by improving the appearance of their smile. Investing in orthodontic care early helps set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth, proper bite alignment, and overall oral wellness.
Why Have Braces As An Adult?
If you had braces as a teenager, but your teeth have since moved out of position, it doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from the treatment again. Adult teeth may take more convincing to move than younger teeth, but a straight smile is still possible.
Adult orthodontics can address a variety of dental concerns, including:
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Overcrowding
- Gaps between teeth
- Bite issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Jaw pain or difficulty chewing due to misalignment
What Types of Children's Braces Are Available?
We offer several orthodontic options designed for young patients:
- Traditional Metal Braces – A highly effective and durable option, using metal brackets and wires to gradually align teeth.
- Ceramic Braces – A more discreet alternative to metal braces with tooth-coloured brackets.
- Self-Ligating Braces – These use a specialised clip instead of elastic bands, reducing friction and the need for frequent adjustments.
- Clear Aligners for Teens – A nearly invisible and removable option for older children and teenagers who meet the criteria.
The Children's Braces Process
1. Orthodontic Assessment
The process begins with a full orthodontic consultation. The dentist will assess your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw using photos, X-rays, and impressions or digital scans. This helps determine if fixed braces are the right option and when treatment should begin.
2. Treatment Planning
Based on the assessment, the dentist will create a personalised treatment plan. They’ll explain the expected duration, goals of treatment, type of braces recommended (e.g., metal or ceramic), and answer any questions you or your child may have.
3. Fitting the Braces
At the fitting appointment, brackets are carefully bonded to the front of each tooth and connected with an archwire. Small elastic bands (ligatures) hold the wire in place—and kids often enjoy choosing their favourite colours! This visit usually takes about 1–2 hours and is completely pain-free.
4. Getting Used to the Braces
It’s normal for your child to feel some discomfort or pressure in the first few days as their mouth adjusts. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief can help. The dentist will provide tips for brushing, flossing, and caring for the braces.
5. Regular Adjustment Appointments
Your child will need to return for adjustments every 6–8 weeks. These visits involve tightening or changing the archwire to keep the teeth moving into the correct positions. The dentist will also check for any issues and make sure everything is progressing as planned.
6. Dealing with Minor Issues
Occasionally, brackets may come loose or wires might poke the cheeks. These are common and easily fixed with a quick visit to the dentist. You’ll also receive advice on what to do at home if any minor discomfort arises.
7. Braces Removal
Once the teeth are properly aligned – usually after 12-24 months – the braces are gently removed. The teeth are cleaned to remove any adhesive, revealing a beautifully straight smile!
8. Retainers and Aftercare
To maintain the results, your child will be given a retainer, either removable or fixed. Wearing it as directed is crucial to prevent teeth from shifting back. The dentist will provide detailed instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor retention.
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FAQs & Common Questions
Below are some of the most common questions we receive from patients considering their dental treatment. If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
It’s recommended that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, dentists can spot early signs of issues with jaw growth or tooth alignment, even if your child still has baby teeth.
Not always. Early treatment (also called Phase 1) can help guide jaw development, reduce the severity of problems, and sometimes eliminate the need for full braces later. However, many children still need Phase 2 treatment, typically with fixed braces, once their adult teeth have come in.
Common signs include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Thumb sucking past age 5
- A jaw that seems too far forward or back
An orthodontic consultation is the best way to know for sure.
The most common option for children is fixed metal braces, which are strong, reliable, and often allow kids to choose fun coloured bands. In some cases, ceramic braces or early removable appliances may be used depending on the treatment plan.
Braces don’t hurt when they’re fitted, but it’s normal for children to feel some soreness or pressure in the first few days. This usually eases quickly and can be managed with soft foods and mild pain relief.
Most children wear braces for 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of their case and how well they follow care instructions. Regular check-ups are essential to keep treatment on track.
On the NHS, orthodontic treatment for children is free if they meet specific criteria for clinical need. If your child doesn’t qualify, or if you choose private treatment, prices typically start from £2,000-£3,500, depending on the type of braces and complexity.
Good oral hygiene is essential. Your child should:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Use orthodontic brushes or interdental cleaners
- Avoid sticky or hard foods
- Attend regular orthodontic and dental appointments
Yes. Wearing a retainer is a crucial part of treatment and helps keep the teeth in their new positions. Your dentist will explain when and how often it needs to be worn.
If your child’s case is considered mild or cosmetic under NHS guidelines, private treatment is still an option. Many practices offer flexible payment plans to help make treatment more affordable.
Book Your Child’s Consultation
If your child may need braces, our friendly orthodontic team is here to help. Book online here to schedule an assessment and begin their journey towards a straighter, healthier smile. Alternatively, you can call us on 020 8731 9020.
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