Does First Phase Treatment Prevent Your Child From Needing Braces?

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Did you know that children should have an orthodontic evaluation done when they’re around seven or earlier if they’re showing signs of orthodontic problems? That allows us to determine if we should start first-phase treatment. At Orthodontic Specialists, P.A., our orthodontist in Lakeville, Eagan, and Prior Lake, MN, provides this treatment for younger patients. But does it mean your child won’t have to wear braces?

Why Your Child May Need First-Phase Treatment

Your child may need this treatment approach if we notice signs that they may be developing bite problems or similar issues. We look for signs, such as teeth that stick out or severe crowding. Other signs we check for include crossbites, underbites, overbites, and issues related to thumb sucking.

What Does First-Phase Treatment Include?

Our first phase treatment in Prior Lake, Lakeville, and Eagan, MN, can vary for each patient based on their specific needs. We use treatments such as palatal expanders or tongue crib appliances to help correct minor issues early and stop them from turning into bigger problems with your child’s alignment or jaw development.

What Benefits Does It Offer?

Taking steps to correct orthodontic issues early may lower your child’s need to wear braces. Keep in mind that some children still need to wear them after their first-phase treatment. Once this treatment is done, we watch and wait to see if braces are necessary for your child.

Visit Our Orthodontist for Early Orthodontic Treatment

Does your child have any problems that require early-phase orthodontic care? At Orthodontic Specialists, P.A., our orthodontist offers first-phase treatment in Eagan, Prior Lake, and Lakeville, MN, to help correct these issues now and prevent more serious problems later on.

How Can I Help My Child Maintain Their Braces?

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Braces can help straighten your child’s teeth and align their jaw to help with their future dental health. Braces need maintenance while they’re being worn, and many children need support as they try to take care of their braces.

As a parent, there are many things you can do to help your child maintain their braces. Working with the orthodontist in Lakeville, Eagan, and Prior Lake, MN and providing your child with resources and gentle reminders, you can help your child avoid problems like damaged braces.

How Are Braces Maintained?

To maintain their braces, your child will need to brush their teeth after every meal, see the dentist regularly, and avoid eating foods that can cause damage to their braces.

What Can Parents Do to Help Their Kids Maintain Their Braces?

There are many things you can do to support your child while they take care of their braces.

  • Consider your child’s dietary needs before each meal. Avoid serving your child foods that will damage their braces. For example, crunchy veggies can damage brackets and wires on braces. To avoid this problem, serve your child cooked vegetables or vegetables that are sliced very thinly.
  • Give your child gentle reminders. Your child may not be used to brushing their teeth after every meal. Remind them to clean their teeth after they eat.
  • Make your child’s orthodontic and dental appointments. Take your child to each orthodontic and dental appointment. Don’t delay making appointments, or you may forget.
  • Get your child the supplies they need to take care of their braces. Your child may need supplies like floss threaders, rubber bands, and dental wax to take care of their braces. Keep these supplies on hand to ensure that your child has what they need.

Does Your Child Need Orthodontics in Lakeville, Eagan, and Prior Lake, MN? Call Today

Take your child to an orthodontist you can trust. For orthodontics in Lakeville, Eagan, and Prior Lake, MN, call today to make an appointment.