Are Braces Right for Your Child?

How braces from your dentists in El Cajon, CA, can help your child

Are you wondering if braces are right for your child? It’s a good question, and one you shouldn’t try to answer on your own. There are many benefits and reasons why braces are a good idea for your child.

Dr. Gary Olen and Dr. Michael Maurer of Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry and Orthodontics in El Cajon, CA, offer comprehensive pediatric and adolescent dental services, including orthodontic treatment to help your child.

Braces or other orthodontic treatment is a good idea if your child has:

• An overbite or underbite
• A crossbite or open bite
• Tooth rotation and crowding
• Teeth that have failed to erupt
• Gaps or spaces between teeth
• Overlapping teeth

These are just a few of the benefits having a straight smile can give your child:

• Enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence
• Teeth that are easier to keep clean
• Less chance of tooth decay, gum or periodontal disease
• Less chance of excessive tooth wear
• Less chance of jaw problems, including TMJ

You can tell by this list that not only do braces help your child or adolescent, they also prevent dental problems later in life.

Braces are an excellent choice for your child. You can choose from:

• Conventional metal brackets and wires
• Clear or ceramic brackets and tooth-colored wires
• Lingual braces, which are attached to the back surfaces of teeth
• Clear plastic aligners are available too, as an alternative to braces. The aligners have the advantage of being removable, to allow easier eating, brushing, and flossing.

Deciding on the type of braces your child needs is difficult. That's why we recommend talking to your El Cajon, CA, dentist. They can help you decide the best course of action.

You want to do everything you can to take care of your child, and for many parents, that often includes orthodontic care. To find out more about whether your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment, call Dr. Gary Olen and Dr. Michael Maurer of Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry and Orthodontics in El Cajon, CA at (619) 440-5915. Call today!