The Different Types of Braces for Children: Which One to Choose?

Children's orthodontics is essential to ensure the harmonious growth of your child's teeth and jaw. When orthodontic treatment is necessary, there are several braces options, each tailored to a specific type of correction. But how do you choose the ideal solution? In this article, we explain in detail the different types of braces for children and their benefits.

Why braces for children?

Orthodontics is not just about straightening teeth. It plays a key role in:

Correction of dental malpositions (overlapping, spaced or too far forward teeth)
Prevention of jaw disorders (bad occlusion, facial asymmetry)
Improvement of masticatory and phonetic functions (chewing or pronunciation problems)
Optimizing oral health (reducing the risk of cavities and gingivitis)

Early orthodontic treatment helps avoid more serious corrections in adolescence or adulthood.

The Different Types of Braces for Children

Depending on your child's needs, several orthodontic solutions can be considered.

Removable devices

What is this ?

These are devices that the child can remove themselves, usually worn at night or for a few hours a day.

Indications

✔ Correction of jaw problems from an early age✔ Palatal expansion (widening of the palate)✔ Maintenance of spaces while waiting for the growth of permanent teeth

Benefits

✔ Comfortable and easy to clean✔ Can be removed for eating and brushing teeth✔ Suitable for early treatment

Disadvantages

❌ Limited effectiveness for complex dental malpositions❌ Depends on the child's discipline to wear it regularly

Dental braces

What is this ?

Braces are brackets glued to the teeth, connected together by a metal wire. They allow the teeth to gradually move into the correct position.

Indications

✔ Correction of significant dental malpositions✔ Treatment of dental overlaps and rotations✔ Restoration of good occlusion

Benefits

✔ Highly effective for complex corrections✔ Fast and long-lasting results✔ Suitable for all ages

Disadvantages

❌ Unsightly (especially metal braces)❌ Require good dental hygiene to avoid cavities❌ May cause slight discomfort at the beginning of treatment

Clear aligners (invisible aligners)

What is this ?

These are clear plastic aligners that fit snugly around the teeth and apply pressure to gradually move them.

Indications

✔ Correction of mild to moderate malpositions✔ Aesthetic and discreet solution✔ Suitable for cooperative children who comply with daily wear of aligners

Benefits

✔ Almost invisible, very aesthetic ✔ Comfortable, no gum irritation ✔ Removable, therefore easy to clean and do not interfere with eating

Disadvantages

❌ Less effective than braces for complex cases❌ Need to be worn 22 hours a day to be effective❌ Can be lost or damaged if the child is not careful

How long does orthodontic treatment last?

On average, orthodontic treatment lasts between 12 and 24 months. Factors influencing the duration of treatment: ✔ The complexity of the dental problem ✔ The type of device chosen ✔ Attendance at check-up appointments ✔ The child's compliance with instructions (wearing a removable device, dental hygiene)

Regular follow-up with the orthodontist is essential to adjust treatment and ensure good results.

Make an appointment with an orthodontics specialist in Geneva

Still unsure about the right type of braces for your child? At Smile Geneva, our team of specialized orthodontists supports each child with personalized solutions to ensure a healthy and harmonious smile.

Make an appointment today for an initial orthodontic assessment in Geneva!