If you think it may be time for your child to receive orthodontic treatment, Providence Orthodontics is here to help. Our braces for kids in Providence, RI, are designed to help your child achieve a healthy, lifelong smile.
When Should My Child See An Orthodontist?
Following the recommendation of the American Association of Orthodontics, Dr. Collins suggests that your child has their first orthodontic check-up by the age of seven. While braces for kids or other orthodontic treatments may not be necessary at this young age, this first examination allows us to evaluate your child’s oral development and determine if any corrective treatments should be planned for the future. This will ensure that your child’s teeth are always healthy and properly aligned because the earlier we catch an orthodontic issue, the better it is for everyone!
If it’s determined that braces are necessary, we offer a variety of top-notch brace options, from sleek stainless steel to semi-transparent ceramic brackets. Not only will orthodontic treatment with braces significantly improve your child’s oral and overall health, but it will also boost their self-confidence as they grow older. And with our initial free consultation, you can be sure that you made the best choice for your child’s orthodontic needs.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Braces?
There are several signs to watch out for that indicate that your child needs braces in Providence, RI. One of the most common signs is an obvious misalignment of the teeth or jaw or if your child has difficulty biting or chewing food. Some other signs include crowded or protruding teeth, thumb-sucking past the age of five, speech problems from a misalignment of the jaw or teeth, and difficulty cleaning teeth because of tooth overcrowding.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Collins and the Providence Orthodontics team as soon as possible. Resolving orthodontic issues early can mean the difference between a lifetime of healthy smiles or the need for more complex treatments later on in life.
What To Expect
When first getting braces in Providence, RI, there may be some slight discomfort as your child adjusts to having the appliance attached to their teeth. However, this usually doesn’t last long — it can be as short as a few days until they become used to it.
As their caretaker, you’ll also have to adjust their diet to better accommodate the braces. Sugary snacks, sticky foods, and hard foods should be avoided due to the risk of damaging the brackets or wires of their braces. That being said, there are still plenty of tasty meal options for kids with braces, such as mashed potatoes, pasta dishes, fish, and more!
Oral hygiene is the most important thing to remember when your child has braces. It helps prevent cavities and other issues while also helping their teeth move into place faster. With proper daily brushing and flossing, as well as the use of mouthwash, you can help ensure that your child’s teeth stay healthy and strong.
Making Treatment Fun With WildSmiles Brackets
We know that getting braces can be daunting for some kids, and that’s why Dr. Collins is happy to provide WildSmiles Braces in Providence, RI, to make the process more exciting for your youngsters. Kids ten and under can choose their favorite shapes, such as stars, hearts, diamonds, flowers, or even footballs and other sports balls. These shapes are then turned into customized brackets that fit their mouths perfectly. And in addition to being fashionable, they are just as effective as our traditional metal and ceramic braces options!