Ensuring children have healthy teeth and confident smiles is a top priority for many parents. One crucial aspect of dental care for kids is orthodontic treatment, which involves correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Braces are a common solution, If you're living in Dubai and considering braces for your child, this guide will help you understand the ideal timing, signs to watch for, and what to expect from the process.
Orthodontic care during childhood is more than just a cosmetic concern. Crooked or misaligned teeth can lead to problems with chewing, speech, oral hygiene, and self esteem. Treating these issues early can prevent more complex dental procedures in the future and improve a child’s overall oral health. Moreover, a child’s jaw and facial bones are still developing, making it easier to correct alignment issues and guide proper growth. That’s why early evaluation and intervention can be key to a healthier smile.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, most kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing an orthodontist to identify potential problems such as crowding, overbites, underbites, or crossbites. However, having an early evaluation doesn’t mean your child will need braces right away. It just allows the orthodontist to monitor growth and decide the best time to start treatment, if necessary.
While some alignment issues are obvious, others may not be as noticeable to parents. Here are some common signs your child might benefit from seeing a children’s orthodontist:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Teeth that protrude outward
- Frequent biting of the cheek or roof of the mouth
- Mouth breathing
- Difficulty chewing or biting food
- Thumb sucking beyond age 5
- Speech difficulties caused by dental alignment
- Jaw clicking or pain
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation. A professional evaluation can reveal whether your child needs immediate treatment or just observation for the time being.
While every child is different, the most common age to start braces is between 9 and 14 years old. This is when most of the permanent teeth have come in, and the jaw is still growing. Starting treatment during this age range allows orthodontists to take advantage of natural growth to guide the teeth and jaws into the correct position.There are two common types of orthodontic treatment for children:
This treatment occurs between ages 7–10, usually while baby teeth are still present. It focuses on correcting more severe issues like crossbites, jaw misalignment, or crowded teeth. Early treatment may reduce the need for more extensive procedures later.
This phase happens when most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted, typically around ages 11–14. It involves wearing braces or aligners to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws fully. Not all children need early treatment, but for those who do, starting early can shorten treatment time later and ensure a better outcome.
Thanks to modern dental advancements, children now have several options when it comes to braces. The most common include:
Traditional Metal Braces: These are the most common and affordable option. They're also very effective for treating complex dental issues.
Ceramic Braces: These work like metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets that are less noticeable.
Lingual Braces: Attached behind the teeth, lingual braces are invisible from the outside but may be harder to clean and more expensive.
Clear Aligners: For older children or teens with minor alignment issues, removable aligners like Invisalign are an option.
A professional Orthodontist Dubai clinic will guide you and your child in selecting the best option based on the severity of the issue, age, and budget.
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of the issue and the type of braces used. On average, most children wear braces for 18 to 24 months, although some may need them for a shorter or longer period.Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress and make adjustments. Following the orthodontist’s advice, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding certain foods can also help speed up the treatment process.
Wearing braces means your child will need to pay extra attention to brushing and flossing. Food can get stuck between brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease if not cleaned properly.Your child’s orthodontist will likely provide a care routine and recommend tools such as:
- Orthodontic toothbrushes
- Floss threaders or water flossers
- Interdental brushes
It's also important to keep up with regular dental check-ups. Your dentist in Dubai will work alongside the orthodontist to ensure your child’s teeth stay healthy throughout treatment.
Once braces come off, your child will likely need to wear a retainer to keep their teeth in place. Retainers are typically worn full time for a few months and then only at night. This step is crucial for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment.Parents should encourage kids to wear their retainers as prescribed and attend follow up visits to ensure everything is staying on track.
When selecting an orthodontist, it’s important to choose someone who specialises in children’s dental care. Pediatric orthodontists are trained to work with young patients and understand their unique needs. Look for clinics that offer:
- A comfortable, child friendly environment
- Experienced, certified professionals
- Positive reviews from other parents
- Clear explanations of treatment options and costs
Visiting multiple clinics for consultations can help you make an informed decision.
Knowing the right age for your child to get braces is essential to ensure a smoother and more effective orthodontic journey. Starting with an evaluation by age seven and following through with treatment between ages 9 to 14 can help correct issues early and create a lifetime of healthy smiles.Whether your child needs early intervention or comprehensive treatment, taking the right steps now can prevent more serious dental problems later. By choosing a trusted Orthodontist Dubai clinic and maintaining good dental habits, you're setting your child up for long term success.If you’re unsure where to start, talk to a trusted dentist in Dubai for a referral or schedule a consultation with a certified orthodontist today. Your child’s smile is worth it.