The Reasons Why You Might Need Metal Braces in Overland Park

For many families, the journey to a straight and healthy smile begins during childhood or adolescence. While newer orthodontic options have become popular in recent years, traditional metal braces in Overland Park remain a time-tested and highly effective solution—especially for growing patients.

At Starting Point Dental, we understand that choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re breaking down the top reasons metal braces might be recommended and how they compare to other options on the market.

 

What Are Metal Braces?

Metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets that are bonded to the teeth and connected with archwires and elastics. These components work together to gradually shift the teeth into better alignment.

Despite the rise in popularity of clear aligners and ceramic options, metal braces in Overland Park continue to be one of the most reliable and efficient orthodontic treatments available, especially for young patients with developing mouths.

 

1. Severe Tooth Misalignment

One of the primary reasons your child may need metal braces is to correct moderate to severe misalignment. When teeth are significantly crooked or overlapping, they can cause:

• Difficulty with chewing or speaking
• Jaw discomfort
• Greater risk of cavities due to hard-to-clean areas

Metal braces offer powerful control over tooth movement, making them ideal for even the most complex alignment issues.

 

2. Bite Problems

Malocclusions—issues with the way the upper and lower teeth fit together—are another leading reason for braces. These include:

• Overbite – Top teeth extend too far over the bottom teeth
• Underbite – Bottom teeth sit in front of the top teeth
• Crossbite – Upper and lower teeth don’t align properly side-to-side
• Open bite – Teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed

Correcting bite issues early with braces can improve jaw development and prevent problems with speech, chewing, or facial symmetry later in life.

 

3. Jaw or Facial Growth Concerns

During childhood and adolescence, the jaw and facial bones are still growing. If your child’s orthodontist notices signs of uneven or abnormal growth, metal braces may be part of a broader treatment plan to guide the jaw into a healthier, more functional position.

This proactive approach is why choosing a specialized children’s orthodontist in Overland Park is so important—they’re trained to evaluate growth patterns and correct issues before they become more serious.

 

4. Impacted or Missing Teeth

Sometimes, teeth don’t erupt properly. An impacted tooth may stay trapped beneath the gum line, while other teeth can come in misaligned or leave gaps. Metal braces provide the control and force needed to:

• Make space for an incoming tooth
• Pull an impacted tooth into the correct position
• Close gaps caused by missing teeth

Braces can even be used in conjunction with oral surgery or appliances when needed to achieve optimal results.

 

 

5. Faster and More Predictable Results

While other orthodontic systems can be effective, metal braces often work more efficiently for certain types of tooth movement. Unlike removable aligners, braces are fixed in place and always active—meaning they can produce faster results in some cases.

Additionally, because they’re constantly monitored and adjusted, metal braces in Overland Park offer consistent progress that’s easier for both orthodontist and patient to track.

 

6. Durability for Active Lifestyles

For kids and teens who play sports or live active lifestyles, metal braces are extremely durable. Unlike aligners that can be lost or damaged, metal braces stay secure and withstand more wear and tear. While mouthguards are still recommended for sports, metal braces offer fewer interruptions due to breakage or lost appliances.

 

How Metal Braces Compare to Other Options

 

Clear Braces

Clear braces in Overland Park use ceramic materials that blend with the natural color of teeth. They offer a more discreet appearance but tend to be more fragile than metal braces. They’re a great option for older teens but may not be ideal for younger kids due to their delicate nature.

 

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces in Overland Park are similar to clear braces but may come in various shades to match enamel. While they provide cosmetic benefits, they’re often more expensive and slightly larger than metal brackets.

 

Invisalign

Invisalign in Overland Park uses removable clear aligners. While popular among teens for their aesthetic appeal and convenience, Invisalign requires a high level of responsibility. For complex alignment issues or younger patients who may not wear aligners consistently, metal braces remain the more reliable option.

 

Supporting Your Child Through Braces

Getting braces can feel like a big milestone. Here’s how to help your child adjust:

• Encourage proper brushing and flossing around brackets
• Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods that can damage wires
• Attend all adjustment appointments for steady progress
• Reassure them—remind your child that braces are temporary and the results are worth it

With the right mindset and support, most kids adjust quickly to life with braces.

 

Why Choose Starting Point Dental?

At Starting Point Dental, we specialize in orthodontic care exclusively for children and teens. Our team understands the physical and emotional needs of young patients, and we work hard to make every visit comfortable, informative, and encouraging.

We offer a full range of orthodontic solutions—including metal braces, ceramic options, and Invisalign—to ensure every child receives the treatment that best fits their needs.

 

Conclusion

Whether your child needs to correct a bite issue, align their teeth, or address jaw development concerns, metal braces in Overland Park remain a gold-standard solution. With proven durability, efficient results, and the ability to handle complex cases, metal braces are a reliable option for growing smiles.

Starting Point Dental is your source for premium dental and orthodontic care for children and teens in the Kansas City area. Schedule your appointment today!

 

 

Welcome to Starting Point Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, where we’re more than your average tooth fairies! We’re the architects of stunning smiles that light up Kansas City brighter than a firefly’s glow. If you’re on a quest for a children’s orthodontist or a teen orthodontist, consider your search over!

We believe orthodontic care should be as unique as your kiddo’s laugh. That‘s why we offer a range of treatments, such as clear braces, ceramic braces, metal braces, and more.

Is your child dealing with crowded or crooked teeth? We can help with that. Our experienced teen orthodontists will provide the answers you’ve been searching for.

And guess what? Our services are as budget-friendly as they are top-notch. We accept most dental insurance and offer interest-free payment options. Special discounts? We’ve got those too for our brave military families and those with multiple members who require orthodontic treatment.

From the cutting-edge Clarity by 3M treatment to the ever-popular Invisalign, our team is ready to add some sparkle to your smile.

Let’s make your family smile with confidence once again! Request an appointment here or call our clinic at 913-422-6699 and experience all the benefits that Starting Point offers!

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