Healthy Habits: Making Orthodontic Treatment Easier

From sleepless nights to new morning routines, it can be tough for kids to adjust to orthodontic treatment. If your child is undergoing orthodontic treatment for the first time, there are a few ways to help them make the experience a bit easier. I had a chance to interview Minneapolis orthodontist Dr. Regina Blevins to get her tips for making orthodontic treatment easier for your child. 

What can make orthodontic treatment difficult for children?

There are some important things to keep in mind when a younger child needs orthodontic care. Of primary concern is maintaining the health of the teeth and surrounding soft tissue such as the gums, cheeks and tongue. A challenge these kiddos have is the brushing and flossing needed to prevent decay and gingivitis. Often the parents will need to help them since the manual dexterity to thread floss under wires, around braces and between teeth can be difficult.  Another concern is the sharp edges of braces and pokey wires causing sores in the mouth.  Orthodontic wax can be used as a padding to help with discomfort.  In my practice, I've found that using Invisalign clear aligners with the younger patients allows them to maintain their home care routine without any modification.  Another nice feature is that there are no wires or metal parts to poke the sensitive mouth areas.  

- What are some ways to ease worries, especially in younger children?

Younger children are often worried or concerned about orthodontic care.  Some strategies for easing these worries will vary on the type of treatment but can include using colored elastics with metal braces or colored attachments with Invisalign clear aligners.  This often creates a sense of excitement and fun connected with the experience.  Showing them before and after photos of children with similar treatment lets them know that other children have managed the process with success and that can be reassuring.

- When older children get braces, how can parents make sure they are taking care of them responsibly?

With older children there are some cool new tools orthodontists are using.  Several cell phone apps are available to remind them to brush and to wear their bite correcting elastics.  Invisalign has a cell phone app that reminds them when to change their aligners and to reinsert them after meals.  Another cool tool is Dental Monitoring where the teen sends weekly cell phone photos to the orthodontist to check brushing and the fit of clear aligners.

- How can parents find the right treatment option for their children of any age?   

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child have a screening examination between the ages of 7 and 8 years old.  This allows growth and development issues to be caught early.  At the screening the orthodontist should explain if there is a need for treatment, why there is a need and all options for treatment. Older children may be referred by the family dentist or on their own ask to see an orthodontist because they are self conscious about their smile. A consultation to discuss the concerns is the first step. At the consultation, photos, x-rays, and a digital scan are usually taken so a plan can be formulated. Most conditions can be addressed in multiple ways. For example, with appliances or braces glued to the teeth or removable appliances such as Invisalign clear aligners.  The orthodontist should explain the pros and cons of the different choices so a family can determine which option would work best for them.