The Whole Tooth and Nothing But the Tooth

As a parent, you know that one thing is for certain: kids are expensive. One of the most important things that you can invest in for your kids is orthodontia. By getting your kids straight teeth as a child or teenager, you can set them up for a lifetime of straight and healthy smiles.  

If you have kids that are still in elementary school, you may start considering if you should get them braces now or if you should wait until they are well into middle school to take them into the orthodontist. One of the questions that a lot of parents ask is, "When is too young to get braces?"

Talk to Your Orthodontist

The best thing that you can do when you are wondering if you should get your child braces now or later is to talk to your orthodontist. Your child's orthodontist should base the answer to this question on a variety of different factors, including the shape that their teeth are in. If your orthodontist does determine that now is the time for your kids to get braces, the tricky thing is that they may have to get a second set later on down the line. 

Look at Your Budget

Braces are expensive, and if you are on a tight budget, getting your kids braces now and then another set in junior high may not be something that your wallet can handle. If this is an option that is completely out of reach, then you may just want to get your child braces one time when they are a little bit older. 

Think of Their Self-Esteem

If your child used a pacifier when they were little or if they were a thumb sucker, then they probably not only have misalignment issues but their jaw may also be out of whack. When your child suffers from these issues, it can make them really self-conscious and may heavily affect their self-esteem. In some instances, when you get a head start on their orthodontia, you can help them with their self-esteem. 

Getting two sets of braces (one in elementary school and one in junior high) is something that is fairly common in orthodontia; especially when your child has severe misalignment issues. Before you jump the gun on making any decision regarding your child's oral health, make sure to speak to your child's orthodontist. Look for an orthodontics office near you to find a professional.