Guest Post – Richard Keane, Do Children Really Need Braces?

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Guest Author, Richard Keane Discusses “Do Children Really Need Braces?”
Many parents dread the moment their dentist informs them that their child will need braces. Not just for financial reasons, but also because wearing braces is not regarded as the coolest thing in the world, and many children worry about being bullied if they have to wear braces. The truth is, if your dentist recommends braces, this is probably for the best and although orthodontic treatment can take a long time, the results of treatment are well worth it and your child will thank you in the long-run—even if it takes them a few years to realise this.

Why are braces important?

Orthodontic problems are common and can have a profound effect on one’s oral health.

Orthodontic problems are common and can have a profound effect on one’s oral health. Unfortunately, most of us do not have perfect teeth and although you may think your child will be able to muddle through without a perfect set of pearly whites, there are risks associated with orthodontic problems.

A Healthy Mouth Equals A Healthy Lifestyle[/caption]If your child has crooked, crowded or twisted teeth this can make it difficult for them to clean their teeth properly, which means that bacteria and food deposits will start to collect in hard to reach areas, such as the cracks between the teeth. This can eventually turn into plaque and tartar, both of which are difficult to shift. Once plaque and tartar are clinging to the teeth and gum line, there is a high risk of decay and gum disease, which can cause pain, soreness and potential tooth loss.

Also, children are becomingly increasingly concerned with how they look and a wonky, crowded or gappy smile will not do wonders for their confidence.

Also, children are becomingly increasingly concerned with how they look and a wonky, crowded or gappy smile will not do wonders for their confidence. If they are bullied at school for their uneven smile or they are constantly drawn to flaws when they look in the mirror, this is likely to affect their confidence and self-esteem. Braces may not be the most attractive fashion accessory but after a year or two, your child will have a straighter smile they can take into their adult life. People who are happy with their smile are more likely to succeed in both their social and professional lives, as they are confident and able to make positive first impressions.

Early treatment

Orthodontic problems do not heal themselves and they are likely to get worse over time. Early intervention is recommended by most dentists and orthodontists. If your child is advised to have treatment it is probably best to have braces as soon as possible. Younger children may also not be quite as conscious about their appearance as older children, which may make them less reluctant to have important treatment.

smileKids are aware of the way they look and this has only been made more obvious by the increasing popularity of social media. Teenagers spend hours taking photographs and uploading them onto their online profiles, and if your child has a healthy, straight smile, they are much more likely to feel happy and confident when they see photographs of themselves. Braces are common among teenagers and they will probably be more inclined to have treatment during their teenage years than their adult years, when most of their friends will have already undergone treatment.

You may be disappointed when your dentist mentions orthodontic treatment for your child, but wearing braces really does make a difference and your child will thank you for making them have treatment while they are young, especially when they reach adulthood and everyone remarks on what a lovely smile they have.

– Richard comes to you today from the www.braces.org.uk site and has been writing and guest blogging about health and all it encompasses for a long time. If you have any questions feel free to address them to him @thefreshhealth on Twitter.