Overview

What Is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist (Say: or-thoh-DON-tist) is a type of dentist. They use braces and other tools to straighten teeth and fix the way the jaws line up.

Reasons kids get orthodontic treatment can include:

• fixing teeth that are crowded or overlapping
• making sure the teeth will line up well for chewing
• adjusting jaw growth and tooth development
• making the teeth look better

When Should a Kid Go to the Orthodontist?

There's no set age for a kid to visit the orthodontist. Many kids go before they turn 7 so any problems can be spotted early. Your dentist will tell you if and when you should see an orthodontist.

What Happens at the First Visit?

Here’s what often happens at the first visit to the orthodontist:

• A technician will take X-rays or computer pictures of your mouth and teeth. The pictures show how your teeth are growing, including the teeth that haven't come in yet. This helps the orthodontist make a plan for your teeth.
• A technician may make a mold of your teeth by pressing a tray of gooey material into your teeth. The mold makes a perfect impression, and it helps the orthodontist decide how to straighten your teeth.
• The orthodontist will examine your teeth, mouth, and jaws, and ask you questions.

Once the orthodontist has all the pictures and information, a plan can be made for what types of orthodontic treatment (devices) will work best for you.

What’s It Like to Have Braces?

Once your braces are on, you'll visit the orthodontist every few weeks. On some visits, the orthodontist may simply check to make sure that your braces are in place as they should be. At other visits, the wires may be replaced or adjusted to move the teeth into position.

Here’s what else you need to know:

• You may need to wear rubber bands that are stretched between two teeth and help to correct the way your teeth line up.
• Your mouth may feel a little uncomfortable at times (especially after an orthodontist visit). A parent may give you pain medicine if you need it. The orthodontist can give you wax to cover any sharp spots that rub against the inside of your mouth.
• You’ll need to avoid certain foods like those that are hard, crunchy, or extra sticky. These can cause braces to break. You’ll learn which foods are OK.
• Take extra good care of your teeth. That means brushing and flossing as often as your orthodontist says. Don’t worry, you’ll be taught how to floss with a metal mouth!

How Long Will I Need Braces?

It’s different for everyone, but most people wear braces for one to three years.

Sometimes kids need orthodontic treatment in different phases. This may mean having other devices (like an expander that you wear on the roof of your mouth) before getting braces. It may also mean having braces for a while, then taking a break for a bit before having them put back on.

After braces are removed for good, many kids need to wear a retainer for a while to keep their teeth in place. You'll still need to visit the orthodontist to make sure your teeth stay where they should.

What’s the Difference Between Braces & Aligners?

Sometimes kids get aligners instead of braces. Aligners are removable, clear shells that are custom made to slowly move the teeth. Kids need to wear aligners 22 hours a day and take them out to eat. Aligners are usually changed once a week to keep teeth moving in the right direction.

The orthodontist can see if braces or aligners would be best for you.