Kids & Braces: The Straight Facts

Currently, nearly five million children and adults in North America are having orthodontic treatment. For many patients, especially children and teens, a healthy beautiful, smile goes beyond good health, it indicates confidence. “Not only can orthodontic treatment improve health and overall appearance, patients often experience a tremendous boost to their self-esteem when they can smile and not be embarrassed by the condition of their teeth,” said Dr. Don Joondeph, an orthodontist in Bellevue, Wash.

But how do you know if your child needs orthodontic treatment? The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) provides answers to this and other frequently asked questions: