Many kids and teenagers nowadays have colorful smiles ? literally. They have teen braces used as a fashion statement. These teens wear braces in hopes of getting straight teeth at the end of their treatment period. The options for braces have multiplied in the recent years. They now come in a number of styles and colors, and kids can express their own fashion sense when it comes to what they put on their teeth. There are even those which are not visible at all!



It is not surprising that more and more teenagers are wearing braces. In fact, experts estimate that more than 60% of teens need teen braces in order to remedy dental problems before they worsen. These include cases such as protruding, crooked or overlapping teeth, and those that have abnormal gaps between teeth. Some teens have braces for better looking, straight teeth and to correct their bite. Whatever the reasons and circumstances, both parents and children know how teen braces can help improve their appearance and give them beautiful straight teeth.

Still, some parents opt not to allow their children to get braces due to one reason or another. Although teens who have dental problems don't tend to outgrow them. The misalignment or the malocclusion will not go away on its own. If your child has crooked, overlapped or wide-spaced gaps, they will stay that way until treatment is administered. You can also expect an increase in bacteria as well as plaque which lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Also, misaligned teeth can wear out your child's tooth enamel rather quickly, exposing your teeth to further damage.

When should your child see an orthodontist? As soon as your child's first permanent tooth appears (around the age of 5 to 7), you may take your child to an orthodontist. You can ask your dentist for referrals. An early appointment is mainly just an assurance that you spot any possible dental problems that will require treatment later on. The earlier the diagnosed, the easier and faster it is for the condition to be treated. Many orthodontists will agree that the teenage years are most ideal to correct dental problems. The jaws have considerably hardened at this time, yet still tensile enough to be treated more easily. Waiting until the teenage years also minimizes the chances of needing additional orthodontic applaiances later in life.

Many teenagers opt to have braces these days. There is no more stigma associated with teen braces. Besides, your child will for sure know a few classmates who have teen braces as well. Remember to always remind them that there is no reason for them to be shy or embarrassed about their teen braces. It will take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, so they will need to deal with their braces everyday. Remind them to smile and not conceal them. It won't be long before these braces give way to the straight teeth and beautiful smile your child deserves.