Orthodontic Appliances for Kids: A Parent’s Guide

When parents hear the words “orthodontic treatment,” braces are usually the first thing that comes to mind. But braces aren’t the only tools that may be used during a child’s orthodontic journey.

Depending on how your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw are developing, an orthodontic appliance may be recommended as part of their treatment plan.

What Are Orthodontic Appliances?

Orthodontic appliances are devices used to support different stages of orthodontic treatment. Some may help manage space as a child’s mouth develops, while others may be used alongside braces or after treatment.

The type of appliance recommended depends on your child’s individual dental and orthodontic needs.

Common Orthodontic Appliances for Kids

Retainers

Retainers are commonly used after certain orthodontic treatments to help maintain the position of the teeth. Your child’s dental provider will explain how and when the retainer should be worn.

Space Maintainers

When a baby tooth is lost earlier than expected, a space maintainer may sometimes be recommended to help preserve space for the developing permanent tooth.

Palatal Expanders

A palatal expander may be used in certain orthodontic cases to gradually create additional space in the upper arch. Whether an expander is appropriate depends on your child’s dental development and bite.

Orthodontic Elastics

Also known as rubber bands, orthodontic elastics may be used with braces as part of certain treatment plans. They should be worn according to the instructions provided by your child’s dental or orthodontic provider.

Mouth Guards and Night Guards

Different types of dental guards may be recommended depending on a child’s needs. For example, a mouth guard may help protect the teeth during sports, while another type of appliance may be considered for certain children who grind or clench their teeth.

Does Every Child With Braces Need an Appliance?

No. Every child’s smile develops differently. One child may benefit from braces alone, while another may need an additional appliance during a particular stage of treatment. Age, tooth position, bite, jaw development, and other individual factors can influence the treatment plan. That’s why an orthodontic evaluation is important before deciding what treatment or appliance may be appropriate.

How Can Parents Help?

If your child is given an orthodontic appliance, following the provider’s instructions is an important part of treatment.

Depending on the appliance, parents can help children remember to wear it as directed, keep it clean, store removable appliances properly, and bring it to appointments when requested.

If an appliance becomes damaged, uncomfortable, or lost, contact your child’s dental provider rather than trying to adjust it at home.

Caring for Your Child’s Growing Smile

Orthodontic care is not only about straightening teeth. Monitoring how your child’s teeth and bite develop can help identify concerns and determine whether treatment may be beneficial.

At Amazon Children Dental, we work with families to evaluate each child’s individual dental and orthodontic needs and discuss appropriate treatment options.