Phase Two Orthodontics: Metal vs Ceramic “Clear” Braces For Children
Pediatric braces are one of the most popular orthodontic treatments for children. Most dentists recommend braces between the ages of 9 and 14 years old when children’s bones are still in their early developmental phase. Combined with Phase One early or interceptive orthodontic treatment, we can make effective adjustments to your child’s jaw, arches, and teeth for better functionality and aesthetics.
Since there are many types of pediatric braces, you might be wondering whether your child should get traditional metal braces or ceramic “clear” braces. Which type of pediatric braces will help your child feel more confident about their smile?
At Children’s Dentistry of Manatee, we’ll give you all the information you need to make the best decision for your child’s needs. Consult with our team, and we’ll be happy to provide our professional opinions on what type of pediatric braces are ideal for your young one.
The Benefits Of Pediatric Braces
Pediatric braces are both corrective and preventive, allowing for better alignment as your children’s teeth and jaws adjust to new teeth. With our guidance, your child will feel more confident when socializing with friends and eating their favorite food.
Braces also offer a wide range of oral health benefits, including:
- Less risk of gum disease and infections
- Decreased chances of overcrowding, and impacted teeth
- Correcting bad bites, overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Closing the gaps between missing or misaligned teeth
- Minimizing protruding and crooked teeth
- Improving facial proportion and symmetry
The Difference Between Metal And Ceramic “Clear” Braces for Kids
Depending on your child’s needs and preferences, our in-house orthodontists may recommend either metal or ceramic “clear” braces:
- Metal Braces
These conventional braces use wire, brackets, and rubber bands to reposition your child’s teeth into place over time. The wires are gradually tightened until we achieve the desired results. they are traditional, effective but a disadvantage may be the lack of esthetic appeal as compared to new options.
- Ceramic “Clear” Braces
Similar to metal braces, these white or tooth-colored braces also use wire, brackets, and rubber bands. However, they’re made with clear or white-colored ceramic materials, making them look relatively invisible!
The Step-By-Step Process Of Getting Pediatric Braces in Bradenton, FL
If you’re considering pediatric braces for your child, you need to set an appointment with Dr. Mann, our in-house orthodontist. During their first check-up, you can expect us to:
- Review their dental history
- Examine their teeth and jaw
- Assess their bite
- Request for x-rays or digital scans
- Take molds or dental impressions
Once we’ve diagnosed potential or pre-existing problems, we’ll come up with a treatment plan to correct their dental structure with braces. Whether your child uses metal or ceramic “clear” braces, the treatments are usually completed within 12 to 30 months. Most children will be required to wear retainers after completing their orthodontic treatment in order to maintain their new smiles.
Braces for Children
Get Quality Pediatric Braces in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL
Looking for quality pediatric braces in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL? At Children’s Dentistry of Manatee, our experienced orthodontist provides expert orthodontic care to ensure your child’s smile grows healthy and confident. Our experienced team offers personalized treatment in a comfortable, kid-friendly environment. Whether your child needs early orthodontic care or a full braces treatment plan, we’re here to help every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today and give your child the gift of a beautiful, aligned smile.
Common Questions
Pediatric Braces Questions Bradenton Parents Ask
At what age should my child see an orthodontist about braces?
Most children are ready for braces between the ages of 9 and 14, while their bones are still in an early developmental phase. An earlier visit is still worthwhile, because Phase One interceptive treatment can guide your child’s jaw, arches and teeth before all of the permanent teeth arrive.
How long will my child wear braces?
Whether your child wears metal or ceramic “clear” braces, treatment is usually completed within 12 to 30 months. Most children wear a retainer after treatment to maintain their new smile.
What happens at the first braces consultation?
Our in-house orthodontist reviews your child’s dental history, examines their teeth and jaw, assesses their bite, and requests x-rays or digital scans along with molds or dental impressions. Once we have diagnosed potential or pre-existing problems, we build a treatment plan to correct their dental structure with braces.
Can my child get braces and regular dental care in the same office?
Yes. Our orthodontists work in house alongside our pediatric dental team, so cleanings, examinations and braces adjustments happen with people your child already knows.
Should my child have metal or ceramic braces?
Both use wire, brackets and rubber bands, and both are effective. Metal braces are the traditional option. Ceramic “clear” braces are made with clear or white-colored materials, which makes them look relatively invisible. Consult with our team and we will be happy to provide our professional opinion on what type is ideal for your young one.
Do braces hurt my child?
Having braces fitted does not hurt. For the first few days after they go on, and for a day or so after each adjustment, your child’s teeth will feel sore and tender while the braces do their work. Soft foods and a children’s pain reliever are usually all that is needed, and the feeling passes. If a bracket or wire rubs, let us know and we will make it comfortable again.
Orthodontics Services