Choosing the proper orthodontic treatment to straighten your child’s teeth is not an easy task. There are so many different types of braces to choose from, and your orthodontist might have a preference when treating your child.
The kind of braces you choose for your child will put them on a path towards healthy teeth for life. Braces are no longer a one-size-fits-all solution. But first, why do middle schoolers need braces?
Why Do Middle Schoolers Need Braces?
Braces are worn to straighten crooked, misaligned, or crowded teeth. They can also correct bite issues, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. Orthodontic specialists know the earlier treatment begins, the more likely early orthodontic intervention will be successful.
What Are the Different Types of Braces?
There are many different braces orthodontists use. Here are some of the most common options when it comes to orthodontic care for middle schoolers:
WildSmiles Braces
Young teens love expressing themselves through their appearance, and WildSmiles Braces allow them to do so with their smile. With brackets in a variety of fun shapes, WildSmiles give kids the ability to customize their look by using all of the same shape, or a different one on each tooth.
Parents like WildSmiles too because they are just as effective as regular braces, and kids are more excited about starting treatment. Not all orthodontists offer these fun braces, so be sure to ask before you decide which orthodontist you want to use.
Invisalign
Invisalign Teen clear aligners are popular for middle schoolers because they’re virtually invisible. Your child can take their aligners out to eat so there are no food restrictions, and they can brush and floss like normal. Invisalign Teen also helps keep kids on track with their treatment with compliance indicators on each aligner and provides a few free replacements if an aligner gets lost or damaged.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional braces use a metal alloy wire and brackets to move the teeth gradually into their proper positions. Small rubber bands, called ligatures, attach the wires to the brackets on each tooth. These bands come in a wide range of colors, giving kids the ability to add some color to their smiles. Since ligatures are replaced every six to eight weeks, teens can change their colors quite frequently, making braces a bit more fun.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces, but the clear or tooth-colored brackets are less noticeable. These braces might be a good option for middle-schoolers who are self-conscious about getting braces but may not be ready for the responsibility of having Invisalign.
Which Is the Best Type of Treatment for Middle Schoolers?
Each patient has different treatment needs and personalities, so what works for one child may not be the best option for another. Contact Smith Orthodontics today to find out which kind of treatment would benefit your teen the most.
