Can you get braces with baby teeth? - Medical Answers (2023)

Can you get braces with baby teeth? - Medical Answers (1)

The problems related to teeth alignment appear early in life, and that makes you think that if your child can get braces with few baby teeth in their mouth. In this article, I will explain in detail if your child can get braces with baby teeth in their mouth. Also, can braces be placed on the baby teeth?

Let’s get started:

What are baby teeth?

Baby teeth are the first set of teeth present that erupts at 6 months and completes their eruption by age 3. They are temporary teeth that are appropriate for tiny babies’ jaws. They are 20 in number and are replaced by 32 permanent teeth.

To know more about how 20 are replaced by 32 teeth. Check out this article, When do baby teeth fall out and adult teeth erupt?

The baby teeth begin to shed at age six, and you get 28 teeth in your mouth by age 12. The four wisdom teeth erupt later in life.

Between the age of 6 to 12 years, your child has mixed teeth, a few baby, and some permanent teeth. This stage is known as the mixed dentition stage of tooth development.

Can you get braces with baby teeth?

This is a common question parents ask about their child’s teeth, face, and general appearance.

(Video) Can My Child Get Braces With Baby Teeth?

The malocclusions (alignment problems of the teeth) arise early in life during the mixed dentition period. You may notice crooked or overlapping teeth in your child’s mouth as permanent teeth erupt. You may ask if your child can get braces with baby teeth in their mouth. The good news is, yes, your child can.

The treatment can be initiated at this stage. During the treatment, the braces are placed on the permanent teeth to align them, leaving the baby teeth.

As the permanent teeth approach their eruption stage, their predecessors are extracted on both sides to allow permanent teeth to come into the desired position.

This process is known as serial extraction, as the dentist removes baby teeth to guide the permanent tooth into the correct position.

Disadvantages of treatment in mixed dentition

The disadvantage of this treatment is that it takes longer to complete as the orthodontist has to wait for the appropriate time for the baby tooth extraction and eruption of the permanent teeth. This often leads to patient and parent burnout. That’s why orthodontists often recommend waiting until 28 teeth erupt in your mouth.

Problems that requires immediate treatment

Patients with deep traumatic bites and crossbites are a few exceptions that require immediate correction.

Click on the link for full article on, What is the best age for braces?

(Video) Ask the orthodontist Series 3 “Why do you put braces on baby teeth?”

Is it usual to have retained baby teeth in the mouth?

It is not unusual to have missing permanent teeth. The most common missing teeth after wisdom teeth are lateral (second) incisors and second premolars (5th tooth from midline).

It is okay to have up to three missing permanent teeth other than wisdom teeth. However, more than three missing teeth can lead to bite problems and affect eating.

How will an orthodontist treat you if you have a retained baby tooth?

In cases when you have spacing or crowding in teeth and want to get it fixed. Also, you have one or more retained milk tooth/teeth in the mouth too.

Your orthodontist will take an x-ray of the retained milk tooth to see if there is a permanent tooth in the bone. If there is a permanent tooth in the bone, the milk tooth will be extracted, and a permanent tooth will be brought into the arch with the help of orthodontics.

If no permanent teeth are lying in the bone. The orthodontist will leave the baby tooth if there is excess space between the teeth and place brackets on the permanent teeth. The baby tooth will be replaced with an implant or a bridge at the end of the treatment.

It is vital to retain the milk tooth because the roots of the teeth maintain bone height. The bone will resorb from the areas where there are no teeth.

In patients with crowding of teeth, the baby tooth is extracted, and space is utilized to align permanent teeth.

(Video) Does My Kid need Braces? | Is Orthodontic treatment necessary? | Dentist Answers:

Click on the link for detailed info on, What are different types of braces (6 bracket systems).

Which diseases are linked to less number of permanent teeth?

There are some syndromes and diseases that are linked to less than usual number of teeth. These syndromes include cleft lip, cleft palate, or both, ectodermal dysplasia, Down, Reiger, and Book syndrome.

Patients with these syndromes have a normal number of baby teeth, but permanent teeth are mostly missing.

In such cases, milk teeth are retained as long they can be retained and later replaced with implants or bridges.

Why can’t you get braces on baby teeth?

Following are the reasons why you can’t get braces on baby teeth:

Baby teeth are temporary and will shed

Humans have two sets of teeth. Baby teeth are temporary that begin to shed at age 6 and are replaced by permanent or adult teeth that will last till you die. The last baby tooth is lost at age 12. So, there is no need to place braces on baby teeth.

Permanent tooth buds lie below the baby teeth

Permanent teeth lie below the baby teeth, and braces on them will damage the permanent tooth buds below them. The premolar teeth lie beneath the divergent roots of the baby molar, and orthodontic movement of the molar can damage the developing premolar.

(Video) Can Orthodontic Correction Occur When A Child Still Has Baby Teeth?

Baby teeth are small with thin enamel

Baby teeth are small, with thin enamel, dentin, and large pulp chambers that make them unfit for braces. The braces are glued to the teeth with a strong composite material that will chip the thin enamel if the bracket debonds.

Can’t bear the force of tooth movement

The formative root cells of baby teeth are lost soon after eruption. These cells are responsible for the repair and regeneration of roots. The clast cells, responsible for root resorption during root remodeling, settle on the root surface and slowly initiate root resorption. So, the process of root resorption begins soon after their eruption.

Milk teeth don’t have the potential to repair and resist if exposed to forces of tooth movement and, therefore, undergo rapid root resorption (dissolution).

The permanent teeth are rich in formative root cells (cementoblasts) that lack receptors for mediators that cause bone resorption and hence save the root from root resorption during orthodontic treatment. However, If excessive force is applied during orthodontic treatment, the cementoblast dies, and the root undergoes resorption.

To close spaces in baby teeth

Baby teeth are aligned but typically have spaces in them. You may be concerned that your child has spacing in the teeth and want to close them with braces.

It is vital to understand that baby teeth spacing is essential for the alignment of permanent teeth. The larger permanent teeth require more space for alignment, provided by the spacing between the milk teeth, growth of the jaws, and flaring of the permanent teeth.

Conclusion

The decision you can get braces with baby teeth depends on your problem. Some patients with crossbite and deep traumatic bite require immediate treatment, and for others, it’s best to wait till all your permanent teeth erupt.

(Video) Should you Put Braces on Baby Teeth or Move Baby Teeth in Invisalign?

It is also important to understand that baby teeth can’t get braces because of the permanent teeth buds lying beneath them, inability to repair and smaller dimensions.

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FAQs

Can you get braces with baby teeth? - Medical Answers? ›

So, Can My Child Get Braces on Their Baby Teeth? In short, the answer is yes. Phase 1 Orthodontics, also known as early intervention orthodontics, is designed to help your child's baby teeth develop correctly.

Can you get braces even if you have baby teeth? ›

A child can get braces even if they still have baby teeth left! In fact, the American Association of Orthodontics recommends screenings by age 7.

What teeth need to be out for braces? ›

Which teeth are extracted depends on the patient's specific case, but generally, the premolars (the 4th and 5th teeth in order from the front) are the most likely to be removed. In some cases, a back molar may be removed in addition, or instead, of the premolars.

Will the dentist give you braces if you ask for them? ›

A question that many potential orthodontic patients ask is “Can my general dentist provide me with orthodontic care?” Well, the easy answer is yes; general dentists CAN offer a patient this treatment.

Do you need all your baby teeth out to get braces? ›

If they're both aligned, there is a lesser chance of your teeth becoming misaligned. All in all, it is not necessary for all your baby teeth to fall out before you seek treatment but in some cases it can be. Matters such as your age may affect this the most.

What is the youngest age to have braces? ›

Some children start their orthodontic treatment as young as six. However, most agree that the best age to get braces or another form of treatment is between the ages of 8 and 14, which is when the head and mouth are most conducive to straightening.

What if you still have baby teeth at 14? ›

Not all children develop at the same rate, so, in some instances, children can still have baby teeth until age 14. However, if a child is older than 14 and has a few baby teeth left, this could be a cause for concern. One reason baby teeth don't fall out is that there is a lack of permanent tooth eruption.

Why 4 teeth are removed for braces? ›

It's common to remove teeth and use braces to allow for more space for your teeth to erupt the gums. This is typically effective in children younger than 16 before their jawbone hardens too much and can't be manipulated.

How bad do braces hurt on a scale of 1 to 10? ›

How Much Do Braces Hurt on a Scale of 1-10? Your braces will not hurt at all when you get them put on, taken off, tightened or anything else, so it is a 1 or a 0 for how painful braces are.

What length do you have to wear braces? ›

Most patients will need to wear fixed braces for around 18 to 24 months. For problems that are harder to correct, or for our older patients, treatment may take up to three years. If you have less severe issues or are a good candidate for clear aligners like Invisalign, treatment may take as little as 6 to 12 months.

How do I convince my orthodontist to get braces? ›

You can try explaining what would you like to improve about your smile, or if your bite is not equal on both sides, then you should also inform your dentist. Starting a discussion can lead to a lot of information you may get from your dentist and maybe a specialist consult by an orthodontist.

How many appointments before getting braces? ›

You can also speak to your dental team for reassurance. Ahead of getting braces, you will meet with your orthodontist. Usually, you will have one to two appointments. During this time, the orthodontist will perform a clinical exam, take x-rays, and get dental impressions of your teeth for the braces.

Can I just ask my orthodontist to take my braces off? ›

Braces can be removed early if a patient absolutely insists, but there are many downsides to this decision. For starters, incomplete treatment may leave your overall dental health and tooth alignment worse than it was before you started.

How many teeth can be missing for braces? ›

Thankfully, yes, you can get braces with missing teeth. Whether you're interested in braces with a missing front tooth, back tooth or even multiple teeth, the first step is visiting an experienced orthodontist like the doctors at Houston Orthodontic Specialists.

When do kids start going to the orthodontist? ›

The American Dental Association and American Association of Orthodontists state that children should first see an orthodontist when they are around seven years old.

At what age do braces stop working? ›

But teeth continue to shift as we age, so there's never a time when braces won't work. Braces adjust teeth by putting pressure on them, and this pressure works even after bones have stopped growing. It takes longer to straighten teeth in adults because bones are more solid. Still, braces are effective at any age.

How long do kids wear braces? ›

Most people wear their braces for about two years. Once the braces are off, your child will most likely have to wear a retainer that's specially molded for their teeth.

How much are braces for 12 year olds? ›

Every year, millions of Americans seek orthodontic care to straighten their teeth. For children, on average, the cost of braces ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. There's not one standard price for braces and the cost can often depend on a variety of factors.

Who is the oldest person to have a baby tooth? ›

Famous Teeth

Joyce Walen of the U.S. still had a baby tooth when she was 87 years old, making her the owner of the oldest baby tooth. The longest human tooth extracted measured at 1.26 inches when it was removed from the mouth of Loo Hui Jing in Singapore.

How long can a tooth last in milk? ›

However, if it's put in milk within five minutes of being knocked out, the tooth root's cells can survive for 30-60 minutes.

Are milk teeth still there? ›

Some adults retain one or more baby teeth, known as retained deciduous teeth. Around 25% of people have baby teeth for longer than the expected age for losing them. Baby teeth in an adult can last for many years. However, they may become nonfunctional over time.

Is it painful to have braces on? ›

The honest answer is that braces do not hurt at all when they are applied to the teeth, so there is no reason to be anxious about the placement appointment. There will be mild soreness or discomfort after the orthodontic wire is engaged into the newly placed brackets, which may last for a few days to a week.

Are braces worth it? ›

Braces are worth the cost because of the many health benefits it helps you to retain. It can be tough to maintain optimal oral health when teeth are not as straight or aligned as they could be. Having braces can help set your teeth and alignment straight.

Is having braces for 4 years too long? ›

The average orthodontic treatment plan is anywhere from 18 months to three years. It's different for everyone, but anything beyond a four-year treatment plan warrants getting second, third and fourth opinions.

What is the most painful stage of braces? ›

The first 1-2 weeks when you wear braces, you are not used to the pulling force of the bowstring, you may experience pain and dullness.

What is the most painful process in braces? ›

Most of the time, the most painful orthodontic sensations that people are afraid of is getting their braces put on and having them taken off. As far as getting them put on, braces do not cause pain. However, the tension between your teeth or under orthodontic bands can cause some soreness later in the day.

Where do braces hurt the most? ›

To realign your smile, braces put stress on your teeth. This pressure often makes your teeth and gums sensitive. For a short period after their initial placement, you might also feel some pain in your cheeks.

Is 70 too old for braces? ›

Today, adults, and even senior adults, are getting healthy smiles with adult orthodontics. Dr. Patel has had many adult patients come in and ask, “Am I too old for braces?” The simple answer is, no, you're never too old for orthodontic care — our oldest patient at The Brace Place was 78-years-old!

How long does it take to get braces after first appointment? ›

Typically after the initial exam, it takes about 2-3 weeks to get your braces.

Do you get your retainer the same day you get your braces off? ›

Once your braces are off, your orthodontic team may take some X-Rays and photos to place in your patient record. You will also receive a retainer soon after your brackets and wires are removed. A retainer's job is to prevent your teeth from drifting back out of place.

Do you get both braces on your first appointment? ›

No, braces are not put on during the first appointment with your orthodontist. There are a few steps taken during initial appointments before your braces are actually applied.

Can you ask your dentist for braces even if you don t need them? ›

While getting braces as an adult isn't a process you probably want to deal with, it is becoming a more common thing than you realize, especially with the new styles of braces available now. Choosing to get braces for cosmetic reasons is a completely valid choice, and one that might be in your best interest.

What not to do after getting braces off? ›

Steer clear of hard bread, popcorn, hard candies, and raw vegetables until your teeth feel normal again. If you have puffy gums, the puffiness should resolve within about 2 months of having braces removed. If your orthodontist has fitted you for a retainer, be sure to wear it as directed.

Can orthodontist take braces off too early? ›

Removing your braces too soon or forcing your teeth to move too quickly can cause future problems and additional costs. Removing your braces or stopping an adjustment too early can cause: Improper teeth positioning. Tooth decay, cavities, or other dental issues.

Does a 7 year old need orthodontist? ›

While there is no exact age for braces, the American Academy of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children visit an orthodontist for the first time no later than age 7. At this point, an orthodontist can evaluate a child's airway, bite, and oral habits.

Are kids getting braces too early? ›

Do you wonder if your kids should get braces too? You may think that starting orthodontic treatment at a young age (7-8 years old) is better but in reality, early orthodontic treatment is neither necessary nor beneficial for most children.

Can you put braces on only 6 teeth? ›

Braces on the front 6 teeth is generally done for aesthetic purposes only. If you're simply looking to improve your smile on a more short-term basis, and you don't have any deep-rooted problems with misaligned teeth, you are most likely suitable for this treatment.

Can you get braces on only 4 teeth? ›

Partial braces go on the upper or lower front teeth to provide early minor correction to crooked teeth. Instead of putting brackets on every tooth, partial braces consist of brackets on the front four or six teeth.

Is it necessary to remove premolars for braces? ›

Premolar extraction may be a necessary step to take during a preparation for an orthodontic procedure. Namely, removing premolars may be necessary and even inevitable in order to preserve and optimize the overall function of a patient's teeth and jaw.

Can I get braces just because I want them? ›

While getting braces as an adult isn't a process you probably want to deal with, it is becoming a more common thing than you realize, especially with the new styles of braces available now. Choosing to get braces for cosmetic reasons is a completely valid choice, and one that might be in your best interest.

Can your mouth be too small for braces? ›

First, if the surface area is too small, the orthodontist will have trouble finding a bracket that will fit securely. Second, while the braces can move the teeth into position, their narrowness means there will likely be spaces on one or both sides.

How painful are braces? ›

Most people will experience mild-to-moderate discomfort or pain when they first get braces. They may also feel some discomfort following brace tightening, which happens regularly while a person has braces.

Are braces rare? ›

Having braces as a child has become so common in the Western world that it can seem a rite of passage—today, an estimated 50 to 70 percent of U.S. children will wear braces before adulthood.

Can braces be 10000? ›

Depending on the types of braces, getting braces could cost anywhere between $3,000 - $10,000.

Do braces make face slimmer? ›

Does the Face Look Thinner After Braces? The face will alter substantially after braces since the upper jaw will be brought out, the lower jaw will go back in, the nose will look higher, the lower jaw will be slimmer, and the angle of the lips and nose will not be as blunt but rather more pointed.

Why do orthodontists pull teeth? ›

The orthodontist may extract your teeth when treating you for orthodontic care to achieve a healthy bite, straight teeth, and attractive smile. They may also perform tooth extraction if you have too many teeth in your mouth, which affects your bite and alignment.

How many teeth can be removed at once? ›

How many teeth can I have extracted at once? There is no limit to the number of teeth you can have extracted at once. While having multiple teeth extracted during the same procedure is rare, it is sometimes the only option for patients with severe tooth decay.

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