Children’s braces

We recommend arranging a consultation for your child between the ages of 8 and 10. An early assessment gives us a wider range of treatments to choose from, so we can achieve the best outcome.

Our specialist orthodontist Dr. Jackie Bracken is trained to detect problems that you can’t necessarily see. If early intervention is needed, we can start treatment straight away. If we think your child will benefit from braces in the future, we’ll arrange regular reviews.

Benefits of early treatment

  • Results can be easier to achieve while children are still growing
  • We can guide the growth of your child’s jaws using functional appliances
  • We can tackle negative habits such as thumb or finger sucking
  • We can prevent more severe problems from developing in the future
  • If fixed braces are needed later, treatment can be quicker and less complex
  • We can improve the appearance of your child’s teeth and jaws

Invisalign Teen

If your child is nervous about wearing fixed braces, they might be excited to hear that we can also straighten teeth using clear aligners.

Invisalign Teen has been designed for children and teenagers. Its custom-made aligners are almost invisible, and they can be removed for eating and drinking. You can also take them out to clean your teeth, which can make brushing and flossing a breeze.

With special features like Invisalign’s mandibular advancement, we can even correct bite issues using clear aligners.

Discover Invisalign

Fixed braces

Fixed braces are available with metal or clear brackets. They’re attached to the teeth and connected by a thin metal wire, which moves the brackets and teeth. Some fixed braces feature self-ligating clips, which hold the wire in place. Others use elastic ligatures to secure the archwires. These are available in a wide range of colours, which prove popular with our younger patients.

Fixed braces move teeth quickly and efficiently. Most treatments are completed within 12–18 months. When their treatment is finished, we’ll give your child fixed and/or removable retainers to keep their smile looking confident.

Functional appliances

Functional appliances are removable braces designed for children who are still growing. The most common type is a twin block appliance, which we use to correct an underdeveloped lower jaw.

Twin block braces usually need to be worn fulltime for 9–12 months. They can achieve impressive results, which can otherwise only be accomplished through teeth extractions or jaw surgery. Twin block treatment is usually followed by fixed braces.

The Hyrax appliance is another type of removable brace that we use to widen the upper jaw. This improves the position of the back teeth and your child’s bite.

For more advice on children’s braces, contact our knowledgeable team. We’ll help you to choose the right treatment at the right time.

Frequently asked questions

How do I arrange a consultation?
You can contact us directly to book a consultation for you or your child. You don't need a referral from your dentist. You can call us, complete our contact form or book online.
What's the best age for a consultation?
We recommend bringing your child to see us for a consultation between the ages of 8 and 10.
Are braces uncomfortable?
It might take your child a few days to adapt to wearing braces. At first, they can feel a little strange, and they might rub the inside of their lips. We'll give you some wax to help shield any tender areas.
Will braces affect my child's speech?
Occasionally braces can affect speech and cause a lisp. This is usually temporary and will improve within a few days with plenty of practice.
Can my child choose the colour of their braces?
Absolutely. If your child's braces feature elastic ligatures, they can pick a new colour when we adjust their braces.
Are retainers included in the cost of braces?
Yes, we include removable retainers and five years of aftercare for every patient.

Your smile starts here

Request a consultation with specialist orthodontist Dr. Jackie Bracken

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Happy clients

My two children had braces with Jackie. I want to thank her so much for creating a friendly and comfortable environment for them and giving them a fantastic smile.

K. Murphy, Tipperary