Children’s braces in Cambridge

At High Street Dental Practice, we believe every child deserves a confident, healthy smile. Seeing your child’s personality shine is a joy, and straight teeth can be a big part of that confidence. Our friendly team is dedicated to making the experience of getting braces for kids as positive and comfortable as possible. We use the latest techniques to straighten teeth effectively while always keeping your child’s well-being in mind.

When should children get braces and why early treatment matters?

Many parents wonder about the right time for their child’s first orthodontic visit. The British Orthodontic Society recommends a check-up by age seven. While most children won’t need immediate treatment, this early visit allows our orthodontist to spot any potential issues with jaw growth or emerging teeth.

Addressing these issues early, often with something as simple as a plate or a partial brace, can prevent more complex problems down the road. This early treatment can make future orthodontic work shorter and less invasive. Think of it as setting the stage for a beautiful smile later on.

How children’s braces work to straighten teeth

Braces are like a gentle guide for teeth. They consist of small brackets bonded to the teeth and a thin wire that connects them. Over time, the wire is adjusted to apply gentle pressure, gradually moving the teeth into their correct positions.

Today’s children’s braces are more comfortable and discreet than ever before. We offer a variety of options, including traditional metal braces and clear braces, so we can find the perfect fit for your child’s needs and lifestyle.

What to expect during your child’s braces journey

Your child’s braces journey will start with a comprehensive consultation and a smile assessment. We’ll take photos and X-rays to create a personalised treatment plan. Getting the braces put on is a straightforward and painless process.

After the initial fitting, your child will have regular check-ups every 4-8 weeks. These appointments are quick and allow our team to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. The total treatment time varies, but on average, it lasts for 18-24 months.

Meet your Consultant Orthodontist – Dr Sally Zahran

GDC 262669

Specialist and Consultant Orthodontist

BDS, PGCert, MSc (Paed dent), MSc (Orth), MOrth, FDS Orth (RCS Eng), FHEA

Sally provides orthodontic treatment for both adults and children, using a variety of orthodontic appliances such as fixed metal and aesthetic ceramic brackets, Invisalign, self-ligating brackets, removable appliances, lingual orthodontics, and Carriere appliances.

How to prepare your child for getting braces

The idea of getting braces can be a little scary, but a positive attitude makes a huge difference. You can help by explaining that braces are a normal and temporary part of growing up that will lead to a wonderful, straight smile. We’ll also make sure your child feels comfortable and understands each step of the process.

Here are some guidelines to help them get to grips with braces if they need them.

They are not alone – reassure your child that there are many other brace wearers, including some high-profile celebrities, so there is no need to feel self-conscious.

Getting used to it – Make sure your child realises that it won’t take too long to get used to new braces, and though they may feel odd at first, this shock of the new and any possible effects on their speech (such as a lisp) will not last long.

Keep them clean – ensure your child knows how important it is to keep their braces and their teeth lovely and clean. This means encouraging them to brush after every meal (if possible!) and making sure they learn to love flossing so any bits of food that get stuck in their braces can quickly be removed.

Avoid certain foods & drinks – explain that certain food & drinks will probably need to be off the menu for a while. These include hard foods, such as crusty bread, some raw veg, and sticky foods like toffee and sticky sweets. Sugary snacks or drinks between meals or at bedtime should also be avoided, as should fizzy drinks, including diet drinks, or consuming large amounts of fruit juice.

Choose softer options – it may be helpful to encourage your child to eat softer foods to keep their braces firmly in place. Also, after their brace and wire adjustment appointments, teeth may be a little tender for 3-5 days, so softer foods can reduce any discomfort.

Fast results – reassure your child that orthodontic changes may start to happen pretty quickly, and when they do see their teeth moving in the right direction, they may feel more positive about the whole straightening experience. 

Embrace the brace – remind them that they can often customise fixed braces with coloured bands, so they might enjoy how they look.

Encourage them to ask questions—our team is here to help! We’ll show them how to brush and floss with braces, what to eat, and what to avoid, so they feel confident and prepared.

Patient testimonials

Choosing the right orthodontist is a significant decision, and it’s natural to want someone who is both highly skilled and extensively experienced. At High Street Dental Practice, we’re dedicated to delivering outstanding orthodontic treatment in Cambridge in a professional and safe environment. We truly believe in the quality of care we provide, but we also encourage you to see what our patients say about their experiences with us.

Book your children’s orthodontic appointment today!

If you would like to know more about children’s orthodontics in Cambridge, have a question about your treatment, wish to book an appointment or would just like more information, please get in touch. We can help you book your consultation and start your orthodontic journey to a beautiful and healthy smile.

Frequently Asked Questions