Some children experience overbites or underbites which are completely treatable. Modern day treatments for these issues include clear aligners such as Invisalign or metal braces with hardware. How do you know which one is the most effective for your child’s teeth? Here is a breakdown of some things to look at when choosing Invisalign or braces.
You can also talk to your pediatric dentist about what is the best option for your budget and where your children are at in their oral health.
Benefits Of Braces
Traditional metal braces require an orthodontist and have small metal brackets glued to the front of the teeth. Wire bands are then connected to the brackets to help straighten teeth. These are durable and have become less noticeable and more lightweight in recent years.
Some of the benefits include:
- Stay on teeth, meaning children can not remove them, slowing down the process
- Customized to fit each patient
- More durable
- Less expensive than other straightening devices
- Able to talk while wearing them
- Personality can shine through in band colors
- Better for complex tooth issues
- Multiple types
- Possible to achieve a perfect result
- Option of completely clear braces and bands
Drawbacks
Braces aren’t for everyone and there can be some drawbacks to orthodontic treatment.
Some drawbacks to metal braces are:
- The aesthetics and look of metal braces
- Changes in diet and food prep
- Regular consultations
- Harder to clean
- Painful
Benefits of Clear Liners
Clear aligners such as Invisalign are an alternative for those who do not want the maintenance for metal braces. Unlike metal braces, aligners are hardly visible and can be removed more easy cleaning and care. Invisalign are easier for kids because of the functionality and they are less visible.
Some of the benefits are:
- More comfortable
- Easier to eat
- Easier to clean teeth
- Fewer dental or orthodontic appointments
- Less pressure on teeth
- Can be removed for sports or other activities
Potential Drawbacks Of Clear Liners
- More expensive than metal braces
- Easy to misplace
- Can temporarily impair speech
- Requires more discipline to align teeth
- Attachments to help move teeth
This may not be the best treatment for your child or teen if they have complicated teeth issues. Asking your dentist about what is required for your child’s overbite, underbite or moving teeth to determine what brace option is best.
Recap
Each option has pros and cons and you should consider which aspects are most important to you and your child. Asking questions to your orthodontist or your dentist is the best way to determine the best option for your child’s teeth. If your children have not established good brushing habits than metal braces might not be a good option.
Mountain View Pediatric Dental
If you think that your child needs to see an orthodontist you can talk to us about which is the best option in the area. Working with your child from the beginning, you can recommend what option can perfect their teeth over time. Contact or office with questions or to schedule an appointment.