Can Kids With Baby Teeth Get Braces?

Does your child still have baby teeth, but are they ready for braces? It’s a common question that many parents face. In fact, it can be difficult to decide whether it is the right time to get braces when your kid still has baby teeth. We’re here to help you understand the answer to “Can kids with baby teeth get braces?” and provide clarity on this important topic!

Understanding Baby Teeth

Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are the first set of 20 teeth that children get. They usually come in at about 6 months old and start to fall out when kids reach 6-7 years old. Each baby tooth has a specific function, even though they eventually will be replaced by permanent adult teeth. Keeping these baby teeth healthy and strong is essential for the development of your child’s jaw, bite, and overall oral health.

When to Get Braces?

Now that you know a little bit about baby teeth and their importance, let’s discuss when kids can get braces while they still have baby teeth. Generally speaking, it is best to wait until most of the baby teeth have fallen out and the permanent adult teeth are in place. This is because braces can shift the positioning of these permanent teeth and it would be difficult to predict what position they should be in with baby teeth still present. However, there are some cases where your child may need braces while they still have primary teeth.

When Kids with Baby Teeth Can Get Braces

In some cases, a child may need braces even with baby teeth present. This could be due to an oral development issue or simply because the adult teeth are not growing correctly. If this is the case, it is best to consult your dentist and orthodontist for their professional opinion. A kid will not receive braces if they still have all of their baby teeth, however, the orthodontist may suggest a space maintainer to keep the teeth in their proper positions until the adult teeth come in. Only once some of the permanent teeth are in place can the orthodontist begin work on fixing any misalignments or other issues.

What are Space Maintainers?

Space maintainers are appliances that orthodontists use to keep teeth in their proper positions. They come in two varieties: the removable space maintainer and the fixed space maintainer. The removable one is worn only while sleeping. It can be easily taken off for cleaning and eating, while still keeping the teeth in place when it’s time to sleep. The fixed space maintainer is an appliance that stays in the mouth until the permanent teeth have grown in. It helps keep the primary teeth from shifting while the adult teeth come in, allowing them to grow into their proper positions. Your child may need a space maintainer if:

• The primary teeth have fallen out prematurely before adult teeth are ready to come in
• Two or more permanent teeth are missing, either due to an accident or extraction
• There is a severe misalignment of the primary teeth and the jaw needs extra help to grow into its correct position.

What Should You Tell Your Child About Braces?

Getting braces can be a scary process for kids. It is important to talk to your child about the process, letting them know that it might take some time and patience but the end result will be worth it. Explain that the braces are there to help their teeth grow in correctly, which will lead to better oral health and a beautiful smile! It is important to be patient and reassuring during this time, as children may have a lot of questions.

Overall, the answer to “Can kids with baby teeth get braces” is yes, but it depends on the individual case. Braces can help in some cases if there are any issues with the way their adult teeth are growing in. In other cases, the dentist may suggest using a space maintainer to keep the teeth in place until the adult teeth have fully grown in. Either way, it is best to consult Dr. Cat for her professional opinion at Li’l Sunshine Smiles. With patience and care, kids with baby teeth can get braces if needed!

Make an Appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles

If you or your child need braces, don’t hesitate to contact Li’l Sunshine Smiles. Dr. Cat and her team of experts will be more than happy to provide advice and treatment plans tailored to each individual case. Contact us today and get started on your journey towards a healthier smile!