When can my child get braces?
There is no minimum age for getting braces in paediatric patients. Most children have their first visit to the orthodontist at around 7 or 8 years old. In some cases, wearing braces for a few months as early as age 5 can help prevent more severe problems in the future.
Braces come in two types: mobile and fixed devices. As the name suggests, the mobile orthodontic aid can be removed by the patient. However, its major drawback lies in the patient’s cooperation. The device only proves effective when worn for a specific number of hours. Fixed braces have special locks attached to the teeth and cannot be removed. While the orthodontist doesn’t rely on the patient’s cooperation, it’s crucial to provide clear instructions to the patient for their daily home hygiene routine. This helps prevent plaque and tartar from building up around the plates.
ORTHOPAEDIC TREATMENTS (or first phase) are typically administered between the ages of 6 and 10, before all the teeth have erupted (typically before the age of 12). Orthodontic treatments (or second phase)
aim at solving dental misalignment, dental rotation, crowding and unsightly inclinations.
