Early Treatment

Do you think your child might need braces? If so, the professionals at Dr. Amy James and Associates Orthodontists are here to help you and your family. Perhaps, as you begin the journey, you might be remembering your trials and tribulations with braces when you were young. However, many amazing advancements have been made over the last several years. Today, braces are more durable, comfortable, stylish, and light weight.

When you come in Amy James, DMD, MS will present you with an array of options. You will be able to choose from a variety of fun colors, and fully customize your braces and elastic bands. If you prefer clear braces for a more natural appearance, we can provide that too. We do not ever want your child to feel embarrassed, and will do every we can to make sure your child is happier with the appearance of their smile!

Why Are Braces Necessary?

Usually, your general dentist will recommend you visit an orthodontist during a regularly scheduled cleaning. This can happen to anyone of any age after they have lost their baby teeth, and permanent teeth have appeared.

Amy James, DMD, MS might suggest braces when your child’s bite is misaligned (malocclusion) or their teeth are crooked or overlapping. If this happens, don’t blame yourself. Usually, jaw and tooth issues occur because of genetics. In some, less common cases, these issues may develop because of:

• Thumb sucking
• Traumatic injury to the jaw
• Tumors (extremely rare)
• Improper dental care
• Impacted or unusually shaped teeth
• Airway obstruction due to enlarged tonsils or allergies
• Prolonged bottle feeding

While getting braces might seem daunting, it is important to remember that braces are an investment in your child’s future. The risk for periodontal disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss is much greater otherwise and could be much more devastating in the future.

Helping Your Child Take Care Of Their Braces

Braces can be hard to take care of, especially for children. You will need to readjust your routine to accommodate braces. The process of flossing and brushing is much more complicated.
Here are the tools you will need:

• A soft and thin-bristled toothbrush
• Fluoried toothpaste
• An oral irrigator
• Floss and a floss threader
• Interdental cleaners
• Orthodontic wax

We recommend that at first you should monitor and assist your child until they learn the proper oral hygiene techniques. We also suggest providing a travel toothbrush and toothpaste for them to take to school so that they can remove any food or particles that might get trapped in the wire during the day.

Call Us Today

We know that braces can be a hassle, especially for children, but rest assured they will pay off in the long run. Properly aligned teeth are not just necessary for cosmetic reasons, but also for practical purposes as well. Straight teeth can help prevent snoring, and make it easier to chew. As your child enters adulthood, they will thank you for giving them a beautiful smile that if properly cared will last them for the rest of their life.

Schedule an appointment today by calling us at (856) 216-8009!