Tips for Helping Kids Wear (and Keep Track Of!) Their Orthodontic Appliances
Posted on 7/1/2024 by Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry
So, your child is getting braces or another orthodontic appliance. Congratulations! This is an exciting step towards a healthy and beautiful smile. But let's be honest, keeping track of and wearing these appliances can be a challenge, especially for younger children.
As an expert pediatric dentist, I've seen it all. From lost retainers to forgotten headgear, I understand the struggles parents face in helping their kids stay compliant with their orthodontic treatment. That's why I've put together this guide with helpful tips and tricks to make the process smoother for everyone.
Making Appliance Wear a Breeze:
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Start with a positive attitude. Talk to your child about the benefits of wearing their appliance, emphasizing the amazing results they'll see.
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Establish a routine. Set specific times for wearing and removing the appliance, and stick to them as much as possible. This helps create a sense of normalcy and makes it less likely your child will forget.
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Use visuals. Create a chart or calendar where your child can track their progress. This can be a fun way to motivate them and celebrate their successes.
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Offer incentives. Consider rewarding your child for consistently wearing their appliance. This could be anything from extra playtime to a special treat.
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Pack a "smile kit." When your child is on the go, pack a small bag with their appliance, toothbrush, toothpaste, and any other necessary supplies. This ensures they have everything they need to stay on track, even when away from home.
Keeping Track of Tiny Treasures:
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Designate a "home base." Assign a specific place where your child always keeps their appliance when it's not in their mouth. This could be a designated box on the bathroom counter or a special hook in their room.
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Use a reminder app. There are many helpful apps available that can send reminders to your child's phone when it's time to wear or remove their appliance.
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Get creative with storage. Invest in a fun carrying case or pouch to make the appliance feel less like a chore and more like a cool accessory.
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Label everything. Clearly label your child's appliance with their name and contact information. This increases the chances of it being returned if it gets lost.
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Talk to your orthodontist. If your child frequently loses their appliance, talk to your orthodontist about options like bonded retainers or alternative appliances that might be a better fit.
Remember, consistency is key.
The more your child wears their appliance as instructed, the faster they'll achieve their desired results. By working together and implementing these tips, you can help your child navigate the world of orthodontics with confidence and a smile!
Additional Resources:
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American Association of Orthodontists: https://www.aaoinfo.org/
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American Dental Association: https://www.ada.org/en
Disclaimer:
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your child's orthodontist or dentist for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations.
Blog - Wichita, KS • Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry At Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Healy created this informative blog to assist with educating the community about various topics of pediatric dentistry. Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, 3933 N. Maize Road, Suite 200 Wichita, KS 67101; (316) 202-9629; tinyteethwichita.com; 10/4/2024; Page Terms:Pediatric Dentist Wichita KS;
So, your child is getting braces or another orthodontic appliance. Congratulations! This is an exciting step towards a healthy and beautiful smile. But let's be honest, keeping track of and wearing these appliances can be a challenge, especially for younger children.