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The demand for braces has never been higher. These days, everybody is seeking to improve the alignment of their teeth and their smiles. Every cosmetic procedure is in great need, perhaps none more so than braces.
Braces (also known as orthodontics) is the art and science of arranging teeth. The science of orthodontics has come a long way in the recent years. Advancements like clear braces, lingual braces and Invisalign raised the bar for orthodontists all over the world. In the old days, braces were almost exclusively for children. Teens and adults would simply refuse to put metal brackets in their mouths, or endure the horribly long treatment times, but no more.
Still, though, braces for children are much easier than adult braces. Most children – or rather their parents- still seek orthodontists’ help for fixing their children’s teeth. If you are seeking the best provider of orthodontics for children and teens NJ trusts, look no further than our Freehold orthodontics team.
Why are braces for children and teens easier?
The bone structure of children up to the age of 16 years is malleable. It easily adapts to the movement of the teeth. For that reason, children’s braces as a general rule takes far less time than adult braces. Not only that, but because the bones are still quite soft, it is far easier to gain spaces by expanding the palate or the mandible. So if your child suffers from abnormal bone structure (such as an enlarged upper jaw or a small lower jaw), seek the help of an orthodontist as soon as you can because –chances are- if you wait past the age of 16, your child would probably need correctional surgery.
When is the best time to start orthodontics for children and teens NJ experts advise?
There is no rule set in stone. Every situation is different, and every case has an optimum time to start. As a general rule, if you feel your child’s teeth in abnormal positions (such as widely spaced or, the opposite, quite crooked) you should first see an orthodontist at the age of 8 to 9 years. This is the highest time of activity of teeth changing. Baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come in, making it the most perfect time for interception if a bigger problem is anticipated. At that age, the treatment of your child’s problem could be as simple as removing a baby tooth a bit early, leaving space for the erupting adult teeth. However, fixed braces cannot start – except for a few rare cases- until all the adult teeth come in, which is around 12 years.
So what should I do until then?
All you have to do is keep a close eye on your child’s jaw development, and simply don’t panic. Every problem has a solution, and most problems tend to work themselves out. If you like to know more, Dr. Natalie Nebblett, Dr. Seth Margulies and the team at Freehold Orthodontics are experts in orthodontics for children and teens in NJ. If you have any questions pertaining to Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, braces and clear braces in Freehold NJ, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Natalie Nebblett and Dr. Seth Margulies contact Freehold Orthodontics at: (732) 462-0700