Why Your Dentist Wants Your Child To Get Braces Now

Visits to the dentist are expensive, even with insurance, and most parents balk at the thousands they may have to pay to provide their children with braces. But if it seems expensive now, just wait until they get older. Teeth that grow crooked can become increasingly more difficult to fix as an adult, as well as the social stigma attached with wearing braces. A straight, even smile at an early age can help increase confidence while children with aesthetically displeasing teeth can become withdrawn, isolated, and have low self-esteem.

Why pay for braces now? Any dentist will tell you that children adapt much better to physical changes than adults. Not only that, but the teeth shift much easier, which means even very difficult anatomy can be transformed into a near perfect smile by a skilled dental professional. As an adult, the bone grows more rigid and the teeth can migrate back into their original positions, so braces tend to require longer lengths of wear. A retainer will also have to be worn for a greater period than if by a child who has undergone treatment. In more extreme cases, braces can prevent jaw problems that misaligned teeth can cause. Improper bite patterns can stress the muscle, cause teeth grinding, and in turn, this can all lead to increased damage and even tooth loss. Spending the money now can save them a fortune as an adult on dentist bills.

Many parents are tempted to put off braces due to new technology such as the invisible brand. In addition to the increased difficulties in shifting the teeth and having them maintain the proper position, not everyone is a suitable candidate for these kinds of braces. The traditional wire variety is still the best when addressing certain problems, but few adults want to be seen wearing them. Additionally, the discomfort of wearing them as well as the time involved is also a big disadvantage. Most adults find it difficult to take time off of work for regular tightening and adjustments, and the pain can make it hard to focus on daily tasks.

The fact is that children are cruel and the schoolyard can greatly affect how a young person matures and develops. Being picked on is almost a requirement, but constant teasing and rejection can lead children to severe depression, social anxiety, and a host of other issues that can plague them well into adulthood. And yes, something as seemingly trivial as imperfect teeth can spiral into a big problem. It isn’t all about vanity though. Smiles actually play a big part in the American culture and the level of dentist care is a point of pride. Providing your children with the opportunity to have a healthy, straight set of teeth is something that they will value for their entire life.

If your dentist recommends braces for your child, take his advice and don’t wait. Your children may hate the idea at the time, but it will be one of the best investments you can give them.