The very mention of the word braces can trigger nightmare in many. Nobody likes the very sight of braces which not just kill your overall look but even affect the lovely smile of yours. And when it’s about kids, braces can surely be a trouble for both parents and kids.

Though they may not be appealing but one can’t overlook the fact that braces play a very vital role in rectifying teeth related issues in kids. Let us understand more about braces and get to know more facts about them

When does there arise a need for braces? Your school going child of age 5 years or more, may require braces due to a number of reasons like having crooked, overlapped, or overcrowded teeth, or malocclusion, known as bad bite. Malocclusion is the condition when there is a difference in top and bottom jaws’ size. When upper jaw tends to be bigger than lower, it's known as overbite and when lower jaw is bigger, it's known as underbite.

At times, other tooth or jaw related problems as early losing of milk teeth, tooth decay; unhealthy dental habits etc. can also call for braces.

If there’s any problem with your child’s teeth, your dentist will recommend you to visit an orthodontist; one who specializes in treating jaw / teeth alignment problems). The orthodontist will be the better person to advise whether or not the child needs braces.

Most of the kids would need braces which come with wires and rubber bands. The wires aid in teeth movement while rubber bands help in fixing the alignment. Other braces types that are available happen to be metal braces, clear or white ceramic braces (they are less noticeable) and behind the teeth i.e. lingual braces.

As of now, clear removable braces are more available but they are mostly used when there is no bite problem. Depending upon the jaw alignment, a few kids may require other devices like a headgear, which is generally to be worn at night. Headgear makes use of a horseshoe-shaped wire attached to back teeth. It pushes them back and allows more space for teeth in the front of mouth.

If your child is recommended braces, he will have to visit the orthodontist regularly so that constant teeth and jaw monitoring can take place.

How long will the child wear braces? It totally depends on the problem which your child’s orthodontist is trying to fix. In general, the average time period is 2 years. Once that time frame is over, the child may have to put on a particularly molded retainer. It’s a small, solid piece of plastic which has metal wires or a slender piece of plastic that’s shaped like a mouth guard. These retainers prevent teeth from drifting back to their usual places.

Caring for Your Child’s BracesNow that your child is wearing braces, it will become very important to take great care of them so that no more dental problem occurs. You must remember that food pieces can easily get stuck in wired braces. Therefore, they need to be cleaned thoroughly. Following are the ways you must follow to ensure the braces stay safe:

• Brushing after meals is very vital. If possible, encourage your child to brush after every meal he has. Also, flossing too is very important. Your child will be given special flosser that can be used in and around the braces.
• Go for regular dental cleanings. Cavities must also be checked regularly.
• Due to braces, your child will have to abstain from certain food types as popcorn, sticky candies and gums as they can harm the braces. Sugary sodas and juices can lead to tooth decay; therefore they must also be avoided.
• Kids who use clear plastic aligners must remove them before they eat anything.
• As braces exert pressure on teeth, your child might feel little discomfort, especially when orthodontist makes adjustments. You can give him some over-the-counter pain relievers.
• In case your child has a loose wire or bracket, make sure you head to the orthodontist without any delay. 
  
  All the pain would be worth once you and your child notice the perfectly aligned jaw and teeth as the braces get done with their job. Just a little precaution and care, and braces will never really be much of a trouble.