Braces for Kids

Traditional Metal Braces- are the most common type of braces for young children.

Start orthodontic treatment early to get the best results for your kids' health, self-esteem, teeth and smile.  Orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile- it creates a healthier you.

When is the best time for my child or myself begin orthodontic treatment?

Though braces or other orthondontic treatment can enhance a smile at any age, there is a prime time period during childhood to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense with braces.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems, or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment or braces may not be necessary for kids but a comprehensive examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to apply braces to your child or begin other treatment.

What are the benefits of an early orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later in life. When orthodontic intervention is not currently necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor a child's growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal, sometimes avoiding braces altogether.

Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?

The first adult molars begin to emerge in kids aged 7 years, establishing what is called the back-bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of emerging incisors can indicate possible overbite, open-bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Early screening in kids allows for early treatment, which may include braces for your child, or simply monitoring you child's oral development to catch potential problems before they arise. This increases the chances for your child to have a confident smile as a teen, and an incredible smile as an adult.

Isn't 7 years old a bit young to begin orthodontic treatment?

You may be worried that your child is too fidgety, nervous, or afraid for orthodontic treatment or braces at such an early age. As stated earlier, seven is the optimal time to catch and begin correcting or monitoring problems that could cause potential issues. Dr. Payne has taken the intimidation out of visiting an Orthodontist and kids getting braces by creating a fun enviroment. Children can also earn Payne's Points for good oral care and redeem them with Dr. Payne to get prizes, including an XBOX! There is also an interactive tool, on this website, where kids can have fun designing their own braces.

Some of the most direct results of early treatment are:

• Creating room for crowded and/or emerging teeth
• Creating facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
• Reducing the risk of chipping or knocking out protruding front teeth
• Preserving space for emerging teeth
• Reducing the need for future tooth removal
• Reducing time and therefore the cost of treatment with braces

Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?

You may be happy with your smile, but did you know that Orthodontics is not merely for aesthetics? Orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment which begins during a young child's growth. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile later in life.

Why should malocclusions be treated?

According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping or knocking out, especailly in kids. Crossbites can result in uneven growth and tooth wear. Open-bites can result in and speech impediments.