Not Just for Adults: How Removable Clear Braces Benefit Kids

Not so long ago, the only option for straightening teeth was a set of traditional braces with wires and brackets. But now, parents have a variety of options to choose from when they start working with an orthodontist to align their child’s teeth. One of the newest options, removable clear braces, is mostly marketed to adults. However, this style of braces can be a great option for kids, too. Here are a few ways your child could benefit from clear removable braces over traditional braces.

A More Comfortable Approach to Orthodontics

Getting braces is a big step for many kids. They know that they aren’t going to look the same for a while and that they will have to change the way they eat and clean their teeth. Traditional braces have wires and brackets that can cause cuts for a short period of time after installation. And they just aren’t very comfortable until you get used to them.

Removable clear aligners are a much more comfortable option. Since they only need to be worn for 22 hours a day, they can be removed at mealtimes and for short social events. They are almost completely smooth as well, dramatically reducing the risk of cuts in the mouth. Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable orthodontics experience for your child, removable clear braces are a great option.

Minimal Changes to Dental Hygiene Routines

Traditional braces can make dental hygiene more difficult for kids. Generally, orthodontists give their patients extra tools to help them floss around their braces, but some kids don’t appreciate the changes to their routines.

Clear braces can and should be removed to clean the teeth. Your child can brush and floss their teeth as they usually would. The only change they need to make is cleaning their teeth more frequently. They should brush and floss after eating or drinking anything that isn’t water to ensure they don’t trap food particles or acidic liquids against their teeth.

A Quick Treatment Option for Straightening Teeth

Traditional braces are a great solution for almost any misalignment of teeth, but the amazing results they give take a significant amount of time. The time it takes to straighten your child’s teeth will depend on how misaligned they are. If your child’s teeth only need mild to moderate adjustments, clear aligners will likely work well for them.

Removable clear braces are a great option if you don’t have time to take your child to the orthodontist very frequently. You can get multiple aligners during each appointment, so you may only have to visit the orthodontist every two months. Additionally, clear aligners generally straighten teeth faster than traditional braces. As long as your child can benefit from using clear aligners over traditional braces, doing so could simplify and shorten their orthodontics treatment.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, around 3.9 million children see an orthodontist in the U.S., and not all of them need traditional braces. If you trust your child to keep track of removable clear aligners and their teeth aren’t severely misaligned, they could be a great option. If you’re interested in clear braces for your child, reach out to our team today. The friendly TruSmile Orthodontics team will help you find the ideal solution for aligning your child’s teeth as quickly and comfortably as possible.