Braces for Kids: Everything Parents Need to Know

When it comes to braces for kids, parents often have questions about costs, options, and how to help their child through the process.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the best decisions for your child’s orthodontic care.

Why Braces for Kids Are Important

Braces don’t just straighten teeth—they correct orthodontic issues that could lead to bigger problems. 

Whether your child has overcrowded teeth, misaligned teeth, or a bad bite, braces help align teeth into healthier positions.

This improves oral health and prevents potential issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw pain. When you address these concerns early, your child can avoid complicated treatments later in life.

Properly aligned teeth also reduce the risk of abnormal tooth wear and make daily oral hygiene easier.

The Process of Getting Braces

1. Orthodontic evaluation: The first step is a thorough exam of your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite. This helps the orthodontist identify alignment issues and determine the best treatment options. It’s recommended to schedule an evaluation by age 7 to catch any potential issues early.
2. Creating a treatment plan: After the evaluation, the orthodontist will recommend a personalized treatment plan. This includes the type of braces, estimated duration, and any additional treatments like a palatal expander or limited braces to address specific issues.
3. Preparation and placement: If traditional bracket and wire braces are chosen, your child’s teeth will be cleaned and prepped. The orthodontist will attach brackets to each tooth and connect them with an arch wire, which applies steady pressure to shift teeth into place. Colorful elastics may also be added for extra customization.
4. Adjustments: Every 4–8 weeks, your child will visit the orthodontist for adjustments. This may involve tightening wires, replacing rubber bands, or making other modifications to ensure progress. These visits are crucial for tracking progress and maintaining comfort.
5. Completion and retention: Once the treatment is complete, the braces will be removed. Your child will receive a retainer to maintain their new smile and prevent teeth from shifting back. Retainers are an essential part of the process, as they preserve the hard work and investment made during treatment.

How Long Does It Take for Braces to Work?

The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the orthodontic issues.

On average, braces take about 18 to 24 months to achieve the desired results. 

However, some cases may require as little as 12 months, while others might take up to 36 months for more severe misalignments or jaw issues.

Several factors influence the treatment timeline:

• Age of the patient: Younger patients with developing jaws and teeth often experience quicker results.
• Severity of misalignment: Severe misalignments or bite issues may take longer to correct.
• Type of braces: Some braces, like self-ligating braces or Invisalign® (clear aligners), may work faster for specific cases.
• Patient compliance: Following your orthodontist’s instructions, such as wearing rubber bands or aligners as directed, can significantly impact treatment time.

Your orthodontist will provide an estimated timeline during the treatment planning phase and update you on progress during each adjustment visit.

Types of Braces for Kids

There are several types of braces to choose from:

• Traditional metal braces: The most common option, featuring metal brackets and wires to straighten teeth. They are effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues.
• Ceramic braces: These use ceramic brackets that blend with teeth for a less noticeable look. They’re a popular choice for kids concerned about the appearance of braces.
• Self-ligating braces: Similar to traditional braces but with a sliding mechanism to hold wires, reducing friction and potentially shortening treatment time. 
• Removable aligners: Clear trays that are removed for eating, drinking and cleaning. They are a convenient option for teens that do not want their braces to be visible. This option requires discipline to wear as prescribed and is not recommended for younger kids. 

Your orthodontist will recommend the type of braces that best suits your child’s dental needs and maturity level.

How Much Are Braces?

The cost of braces varies based on the type of braces and the complexity of the treatment plan.

On average, traditional braces can range from $3,000 to $7,000. Payment plans and dental insurance plans can help make treatment more affordable.

At Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics, we offer payment plans and accept a wide range of insurances at all of our locations. 

Does Medicaid Cover Braces for Kids?

Medicaid may cover braces if the treatment is deemed medically necessary.

Conditions like severe misalignment, jaw issues, or significant orthodontic concerns could qualify. It’s important to work closely with your orthodontist to provide the necessary documentation and explore what is covered under your specific Medicaid plan.

Coverage can vary by state, so check with your orthodontist and Medicaid provider for details.

Helping Kids Adjust to Braces

Here are tips to help your child adjust to their braces and maintain good oral health:

• Snacks for kids with braces: Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and bananas to make eating easier. Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage braces.
• Care of braces: Use orthodontic wax to prevent irritation and floss threaders or a special floss for braces to keep teeth clean. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to avoid tooth decay.
• Avoid sugary sodas and sticky foods: These can cause tooth decay and damage braces. Stick to a braces-friendly diet to ensure successful treatment.
• Pain relievers: Help ease discomfort during adjustments with over-the-counter pain relievers or a warm saltwater rinse.

If your child is involved in sports, it is essential to invest in a mouthguard. For more information, read: Mouthguards for Braces: A Must For Young Athletes.

How to Handle Common Issues

• Loose wire or bracket: Contact your orthodontist for a repair. In the meantime, use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges.
• Discomfort during adjustments: Use orthodontic wax to protect the soft tissues and mild pain relievers to alleviate soreness.
• Broken rubber bands or elastics: Replace them as instructed by your orthodontist to keep treatment on track.

Benefits of Braces for Kids

Straight teeth are easier to clean, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, addressing jaw issues early can prevent long-term discomfort and costly treatments later in life.

The result? A beautiful, healthier smile.

FAQ About Braces for Kids

At what age can a child get braces? 

Most children can get braces between the ages of 9 and 14 when their permanent teeth have come in. However, early evaluations by age 7 can help identify potential orthodontic issues and plan for the right time to start treatment.

Do braces hurt? 

Braces don’t typically hurt, but your child may feel some pressure or soreness for a few days after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help ease discomfort.

What happens if a child doesn’t wear their rubber bands or aligners as instructed? 

Not wearing rubber bands or aligners as prescribed will delay treatment. Rubber bands are essential for correcting bite issues, while aligners need to be worn 20-22 hrs a day to move teeth properly. Compliance is key to achieving the expected results on time.

Choose Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics

At Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics, we specialize in orthodontic treatment for kids. 

If you are looking for affordable braces or alternative options like removable aligners, we will develop a treatment plan that fits their needs and your budget.

We offer payment plans and accept Medicaid and a wide range of insurances.

To book an appointment at our Hampden location with our orthodontist, Dr. Voytek Bobak, call (720) 826-3694. We are located at 7400 E Hampden Ave C1, Denver, CO.