Article series · 12 parts
Braces for kids: a parent's guide
Twelve articles to read in order: when to see an orthodontist, how habits and baby teeth matter, choosing a doctor and a type of braces, and looking after your child while they wear them.
Read in this order — each article stands on its own, and each was reviewed by one of our dentists. Articles without an English version open in Vietnamese.
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Part 1 of 12When should a child first see an orthodontist? Signs parents can spot
When a child should have a first orthodontic check, signs in the teeth, jaws and habits that parents can notice at home, and what the first visit involves.
8 min read ·
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Part 2 of 12Early orthodontic treatment for children: when it helps and when to wait
What early (two-phase) orthodontic treatment is, which problems are usually treated early, when waiting is better, and how parents can prepare.
6 min read ·
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Part 3 of 12Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, lip biting: habits that affect children's teeth
How thumb and dummy sucking, tongue thrusting and lip biting affect a child's teeth and jaws, when to worry, and gentle ways parents can help a child stop.
5 min read ·
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Part 4 of 12Mouth breathing and snoring in children: what do they have to do with teeth and jaws?
Long-term mouth breathing and snoring in children can be linked to how the jaws develop. Signs to watch for, who to see first and how a dentist can help.
5 min read ·
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Part 5 of 12Losing a baby tooth early: why space for the adult tooth matters
A baby tooth lost early to decay or a fall can let nearby teeth drift and leave the adult tooth short of room. What space maintainers are, types and care.
5 min read ·
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Part 6 of 12Choosing an orthodontist for your child: what parents should ask
Tips for parents choosing where their child will have braces: orthodontic training, records, questions to ask at the consultation and signs to think twice.
5 min read ·
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Part 7 of 12Do braces always mean having teeth taken out? When extractions are needed and other ways to make space
Not everyone with braces needs extractions. Why some cases do, other ways to make space (expansion, enamel reduction, moving teeth back) and what to ask.
9 min read ·
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Part 8 of 12Mini-screws in orthodontics: when are they needed and do they hurt?
A mini-screw is a small screw placed temporarily in the jaw as an anchor for braces. When orthodontists use one, if it hurts, care and removal.
8 min read ·
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Part 9 of 12Fixed braces or Invisalign: how to choose what suits you
Torn between fixed braces and Invisalign clear aligners? Questions to help you decide: your teeth, your daily routine, self-discipline, check-ups and cost.
9 min read ·
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Part 10 of 12Brace problems at home: what parents can do and when to call
How parents can handle brace problems at home, from poking wires and loose brackets to lost elastics and cracked aligners, and when to call the clinic.
5 min read ·
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Part 11 of 12Sports and music with braces: what children and parents should know
Braces don't mean giving up football, swimming or the flute. How to protect teeth and appliances during sport and music practice, what to do after a knock.
5 min read ·
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Part 12 of 12Helping your teenager cooperate with braces: tips for parents
A teenager's cooperation has a big effect on how braces progress. How parents can support hygiene, elastics, aligner wear, confidence and school schedules.
5 min read ·
