Every parent wants to give his or her child the best start possible in life. That includes sending your child out into the world as an adult with straight, well-maintained teeth and a beautiful smile. However, every child is different, including when it comes to braces.
Braces or aligners may be an option for your child, but it’s not a decision to be made lightly. Before considering any form of orthodontia, you should talk to your dentist to ensure that your child’s mouth and maturity level are ready for braces. Many dentists recommend that the baby teeth be fully gone before considering dental braces for children.
While My Family Dentistry does not offer traditional orthodontia services, we do offer Invisalign aligners and provide support and information about other options as you consider orthodontia for your child.
Invisalign for Kids
Many adults choose to straighten their teeth with Invisalign braces, but you may not know that Invisalign can also work well for older kids. Not only do Invisalign aligners straighten teeth, but they can also result in healthier teeth and gums because the removable aligner trays make it easier to brush and floss. However, Dr. Mullins does sometimes recommend traditional metal braces for younger children, who are often not as compliant about wearing their aligners.
Orthodontist Referrals
It can be difficult to find an orthodontist to meet your needs, especially if you are new to the area or have never visited an orthodontist before. At My Family Dentistry, we maintain a list of the best orthodontists in the Knoxville metro area. We are happy to refer you to a great orthodontist who can help you and your child achieve a beautiful smile for life. We can also help you find an orthodontist who accepts your insurance plan or other form of payment such as CareCredit.
Dental Care with Braces
It is very important to continue proper dental care for your child while they are under the care of an orthodontist. Regular cleanings are essential for kids with braces, as they are for every child. You and your child need to be extra diligent when it comes to flossing and brushing; with traditional braces, neglecting basic care can cause the staining and enamel erosion on the exposed portions of the teeth, resulting in unsightly patches on the teeth once the braces are removed. For younger children, we strongly suggest that you supervise your child during flossing and brushing to build healthy habits for life. Older children are generally able to handle these tasks well with gentle reminders from their parents.
Dr. Mullins and the staff at My Family Dentistry are committed to helping each of our patients get the smile they want. In addition to regular cleanings and maintenance, we’re happy to assist you with the education and information you need to make the right choices when it comes to your child’s dental health. Contact us today to learn more about the products and services that are right for you and your child!
Do you have tips for kids with braces? Let us know in the comments!
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