Braces in kids – here’s everything you need to know

Braces in kids – here’s everything you need to know
Our expert dentist tells you about the types and cost of braces, the right age for them and the diet dos and don'ts.

What is the right age to get braces?

The ideal age to go for braces is between 12 -13 years of age. But at times, a kid might require pre-braces treatment due to severe misalignment of the teeth. In such a case, the kid can go for braces as early as 9 – 10 years, which also reduces the treatment time of the braces (how long the braces have to be kept). This is because, as the kids are in their growing years, implementing braces at such a tender age helps in proper alignment of the permanent teeth. The kid can go for early braces treatment if the dentist comes across an oral problem on a regular visit. Read more on how crooked teeth may cause gum disease.

What are the types and cost of the braces?

There are three major types of braces that are available in the market. These are –

Metal Braces: These are regular braces which are quite common and are made up of metal. The kid has to keep the braces for at least a year or 1 ½ years. The cost of these braces may range between Rs 25,000 – 30,000, which is usually a one-time investment.

Ceramic Braces: It is similar to the metal braces in the size and shape but unlike metal braces, these are white-coloured braces or slightly transparent in color, which often blend with the colour of the teeth. These types of braces are less common and may cost between Rs 40,000 – 50,000. The duration of the treatment is for a year or two. Just like metal braces, ceramic braces have to be fixed onto the teeth from the start of the treatment till the treatment is completed.

Invisible braces: There are two types of invisible braces namely lingual braces and clear aligners.

Lingual braces: These types of braces are fixed onto the teeth but from the backside of the teeth surface (and not like metal or ceramic braces). And hence, these braces are not seen on the front. The cost of these types of braces ranges from 90,000 – 1.10 lakh. Clear aligners: Also known as removable braces, clear aligners use advanced technology. The patient can remove the braces every time he needs to brush the teeth or while eating and wear it off afterwards. These types of braces look like a transparent plastic cover. There will be different sets of clear aligners, and the patient needs to keep changing it every two weeks. As these types of braces are not made in India, it is very expensive. The cost of clear aligners starts from 1.20 lakh onwards, depending upon the treatment.

How often do you have to consult a doctor?

In the case of metal, ceramic and lingual braces, the kid has to meet the specialist every month. Whereas, for clear aligners, the kid can consult the dentist every two – three months as the aligners are given to the kids. However, one has to keep in mind that aligners have to be worn for at least 18 – 20 hours every day. Here are 7 things your dentist wants you to know about oral health.

What foods should you eat and what to avoid?

If you are wearing metal or ceramic or lingual braces, then eating hard, and sticky foods like chocolates and nuts should be avoided as the braces can come off. Apart from these, one can eat whatever they want to eat. Even after removal of braces, you can eat whatever you want to immediately after removal. There are no specific dietary restrictions for kids wearing braces.

What other precautions should one have to follow?

Overall, oral hygiene and maintenance of the braces are crucial. It is advised to brush after every meal with special orthodontic brushes twice a day, preferably in the morning and night. In the case of fixed braces like metal and ceramic, there is a possibility that the braces might touch the surrounding areas.  Hence, rinse your mouth with water and maintain proper hygiene. Also, read about dental treatments for a killer smile.

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