Braces For Kids – Pre-Orthodontic Observation

Braces For Kids – Pre-Orthodontic Observation

Braces for Kids

When Should You Start Your Braces Treatment?

Pre-Orthodontic Observation

Who Is Eligible?

Kids who have overbite, underbite, crossbite or other issues may be eligible for braces based on an orthodontic evaluation with Dr. Feldman. If your child’s teeth are expected to erupt ― or are already erupting ― in such a way that it causes problems in adolescence and adulthood, braces might be a good option now.

Why Is It Needed?

It’s easier to correct problems now. Your child’s jaw isn’t firmly set in place as it will be as they grow older. This can mean an easier treatment overall. It may also mean a shorter treatment period for your child.

How Does It Work?

Each case is different, but most kids have braces after an orthodontic evaluation or after a period of orthodontic observation. Dr. Feldman puts your child’s braces on here in the Feldman Orthodontics office, and our team does everything in our power to help your child feel relaxed and comfortable every step of the way. This first appointment can take as little as an hour.

Cost of Braces

The Feldman Orthodontics team understands that braces are a major investment, so we will help you plan for them. The exact cost of braces varies according to the kind of braces, how long your child needs to wear them, and other factors specific to your child. We also offer finance plans to help your family afford your child’s braces.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which Foods Should I Avoid With Braces?

    You should avoid foods that are chewy, sticky or hard. In general, avoid anything that could pull your brackets loose, break your wires or snap your rubber bands. Stay away from chewing gum, eating popcorn kernels and chewing ice, no matter what. You can still eat most types of bread, meat, veggies, fruits, and dairy. If you’ve got a craving for a food that you shouldn’t eat, consider eating it in a new way. For example, shave the corn off the cob, and you can still enjoy that delicious farm-fresh corn.

  • How Do I Brush My Teeth With Braces?

    Brushing your teeth with braces is simple: You just need to be extra cautious. Take your time to make sure that you cover all areas of the mouth, around every bracket and wire, to prevent food from getting lodged in your braces. Brush three times a day (after every meal) and floss every night as well. Flossing should be slow and careful, never tugging on the wires. Dr. Feldman may recommend a special flosser or special flossing technique to make it easier.

  • Are Braces Painful? How Can I Ease Pain From Braces?

    Braces may cause some soreness in the beginning and just after an adjustment. This is normal, and it won’t last long. You can make a saltwater rinse (1 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water) to swish around your mouth for pain relief. If that’s not quite enough to ease your discomfort, you can use an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol or Advil in the dosage recommended on the bottle.

  • How Long Will I Need to Wear Braces?

    It depends on your specific situation. Most patients wear braces for anywhere from 12 to 24 months. Dr. Feldman can discuss your projected treatment path with you so you are able to estimate the amount of time you will be wearing your braces.

  • Can I Get Braces That Are Less Noticeable?

    Yes, you have a couple of options for this. Ceramic braces are tooth-colored and blend in with your teeth very well. For an even less noticeable option, there are lingual braces. Lingual braces are applied to the back of your teeth, so nobody will ever know you have braces. However, they’re not right for everyone, and the treatment with lingual braces is more complex than with other kinds of braces. If you want a no-metal option, Invisalign might be a great choice. Invisalign are clear plastic aligners that shift your teeth gradually, and it takes about the same amount of time as braces.

  • How much do braces cost?

    The cost of braces depends on several factors, including the type of braces you choose and the length of time that you wear them. Therefore, the cost can vary considerably from one patient to the next. At Feldman Orthodontics, we fully understand that you need to stick to your budget, and we will do everything possible to make braces affordable for you. We can work with your insurance provider and offer payment plans as well.