Has your child been asking about braces? We'd love to talk about their orthodontic options with your family during an orthodontic consultation. Metal and ceramic braces can work well for patients who do not want to keep track of clear aligners or those who have more severe orthodontic issues that require traditional braces. To learn more or schedule your child's consultation, please give us a call or send us a message, and we'll find a convenient time for you to come see us.
What should my child avoid doing while they have braces?
Metal and ceramic braces are quite durable, but patients should still be careful with them to prevent a bracket from coming off or a wire coming loose. Chewing gum is not a good idea for patients with traditional braces, as pieces of gum can easily get stuck in them. Sticky candy like caramel, licorice, and taffy should also be avoided. Crunchy foods like carrots and apples can be enjoyed if they are cut up and chewed with the back teeth, and it is recommended that patients cut their corn off the cob instead of biting into it.
Do you have to wear a retainer after wearing braces?
Once your child's braces are removed and their teeth are perfectly straight, a retainer will need to be used to keep their teeth in alignment. Otherwise, the teeth will begin shifting back to where they were before, and they will need to go through orthodontic treatment all over again to correct their misaligned teeth. Some retainers are wires that are placed permanently behind the teeth, while others are clear plastic trays that fit over the teeth and are typically worn at night. Our team can go over your child's options for retainers before their braces are removed.
Are braces covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans do offer at least partial coverage for orthodontic treatment, especially if wearing braces is required for your child to maintain optimal oral health. Our office accepts a wide variety of dental insurance plans, and we would be happy to help you maximize your dental benefits as much as possible to help minimize any out-of-pocket costs. We also work with companies like CareCredit® so families can divide the cost of their child's braces into manageable monthly payments. To learn more, please visit our financial page.
