Genes are responsible for many traits in a person. They'll determine if you'll have brown eyes or blond hair, and could dictate whether you will be tall or short. Genes are also largely responsible for dental problems that could necessitate orthodontic braces, something many children need to correct crooked teeth or bite issues.

Finding Out About Braces

Your family or pediatric dentist will likely be the first person to point out the need for braces. He or she can usually recommend an orthodontist who specializes in children's teeth.

The Mechanics of Braces

Braces work by slowly forcing teeth into a position the orthodontist decides upon. Brackets are glued onto the front (or rear, lingual side for "invisible braces") and then connected by an arch wire. A buccal tube on the band of the last molar holds the end of the arch wire securely in place. At each visit, the orthodontist will either trim the wire or place a shorter wire in place that draws the teeth backward. The child might also have to wear rubber bands or headgear, a metal brace that fits into slots in the brackets and wraps around the head, pulling the front teeth back for additional pressure.

When Is a Good Time for Braces?

It is not necessary to wait until your child's permanent teeth are all in place before investigating braces. Many alignment problems and jaw problems can be corrected while the child is still growing. The majority of children now get braces around the age of nine.

Length of Treatment and Cost

Braces are worn between one and three years depending upon the severity of the problem and how diligent the patient is regarding the use of headgear or rubber bands, or other treatment procedures. After braces are removed, a retainer will likely have to be used to maintain the position of the teeth until wisdom teeth have grown in -- or even into adulthood. The cost of braces ranges from $5,000 and up. Less visible braces may cost more because of their cosmetic nature.

A child will generally see the orthodontist every month for adjustments made to the hardware in his or her mouth.

Are Braces Painful?

Most patients will experience mild soreness after tightening appointment or irritation from friction with mouth tissues and the metal hardware. Over-the-counter pain medications can alleviate soreness, while dental wax can smooth over points of irritation.

Today's braces are smaller and more advanced than in years past. Therefore the wires and other hardware used may cause less discomfort.