Braces for children in Dubai

Types of braces: how to choose an orthodontic structure for a child

Children's brace systems are divided into several groups based on the location of installation, the type of structure, and the materials from which they are made.

By location of installation

Vestibular orthodontic devices – a traditional solution. They are installed on the outer surface of the teeth. They are considered more effective, but they have a serious drawback – low aesthetics, as such systems are clearly visible when the child talks or smiles.

Lingual models are installed on the back surface of the teeth. They are less noticeable but not as effective as vestibular ones. They can also injure the mucous membrane.

By type of structure

Brace systems are divided into ligature and non-ligature or self-ligating.

In the first case, the power arch is fixed with ligatures – these are elastic rings made of rubber or silicone or elements made of metallic wire. Ligatures stretch or break over time, so it is necessary to visit the doctor approximately once a month for him to inspect the structure, replace it if necessary, and adjust the tension of the arch. This option is more effective and affordable.

In self-ligating systems, the arch is fixed with special clips. Due to this, you can visit the orthodontist less often, wearing such braces is more comfortable, and they are easier to care for. But they are more expensive, not suitable for correcting the most severe pathologies.

By material

Metal systems, made of stainless steel, titanium-based alloys, or nickel, are affordable, effective for complex bite anomalies. But they have many disadvantages:

• Unattractive appearance – they are immediately noticeable as soon as the child opens their mouth;
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth;
• Possible allergic reaction.

Plastic – an interesting solution for those who are self-conscious about the need to wear an orthodontic structure. Plastic can be painted in any color to turn braces into an original accessory. Affordable cost is another advantage. But it is a fragile material, often causing allergic reactions. Not suitable for correcting complex cases.

Ceramics – an inert hypoallergenic material. Matte or semi-transparent ceramic braces are less noticeable than metallic or plastic, but cost more. They can also change color under the influence of food dyes, not suitable for correcting severe pathologies.

Systems made of artificial sapphire are the most expensive, but they surpass all others in aesthetic characteristics. They are durable, transparent, barely noticeable, and not prone to darkening.

When choosing suitable braces for a child, it is necessary to consider not only the material features or the young patient's wishes but also the orthodontist's recommendations, depending on which anomaly needs to be corrected.

Which systems are better for children: ligature or non-ligature

The choice between ligature and self-ligating braces depends on several factors.

Non-ligature models have advantages:

• Faster adaptation;
• Minimum friction of the structure elements against the tooth enamel surface;
• Easier maintenance compared to ligature devices;
• Less frequent visits to the orthodontist.

But many factors must be considered, including the patient's age, the degree of deformation of the dental row, and the financial capabilities of the parents.

Caring for ligature braces is more complicated. The child has to be taken to the orthodontist approximately once a month. But they cost less, and in cases of severe bite anomalies, only such structures can help solve the problem.

Therefore, the choice in favor of one or another type of braces should be made after consulting an orthodontist.

How children's braces are installed

Correcting abnormal tooth position with non-removable orthodontic structures is a process consisting of several stages.

First, you need to come for a consultation. The doctor will examine the child, answer the parents' questions. He will take x-rays, use computed tomography, and also make casts. This is necessary to:

• Assess the state of the jaw-dental system, determine the location of the tooth roots;
• Make braces according to the individual characteristics of the young patient.

The next stage is preparatory. During this time, technicians manufacture the orthodontic device, and the doctor develops a correction plan.

The oral cavity should be close to ideal, so it is necessary to:

• Treat caries and other diseases;
• Eliminate inflammation foci;
• Perform professional cleaning to remove soft dental plaque and hard deposits as thoroughly as possible;
• If necessary – strengthen the enamel with compositions containing calcium, fluoride.

Only after this can installation be carried out.

After preliminary drying of the tooth surface, the doctor fixes a lock on each unit using dental glue, which quickly hardens under the influence of ultraviolet light. Then the orthodontist installs the power arch, adjusts the necessary pressure level. He gives recommendations for caring for the braces, acquaints the parents with the schedule according to which the child needs to come to him for inspection and adjustment of the system. The procedure for both jaws takes 1-1.5 hours.

At the beginning of wearing, the orthodontic structure may cause unpleasant and even painful sensations. Gradually they pass. The correction period depends on the individual characteristics of the child, ranging from a year to three years. But in general, the process of correcting bite defects in a child is faster than in an adult with a similar problem.

The decision to remove the system is made by the orthodontist. To complete the correction of the pathology, it will be necessary to wear a retainer for some time, which secures the achieved result.