Back-to-School Smiles: Is It Time for an Orthodontic Evaluation?
Between buying school supplies and adjusting to new schedules, the start of a school year can be busy. It is also a helpful time to check important health appointments off your family’s list - including an orthodontic evaluation.
At Main Street Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics, we help children and teens build healthy habits and feel confident about their smiles throughout the school year.
Why Back-to-School Is a Great Time to Start
A new school year brings more consistent daily routines. Regular mealtimes and morning and evening schedules can make it easier for children to adjust to braces, care for their teeth and stay on track with appointments.
While every child is different, many students also enjoy seeing their smiles gradually change throughout the year. In addition to supporting confidence, properly aligned teeth can be easier to clean, and addressing bite concerns may improve chewing and support long-term oral health.
Simple Braces Tips for School
A little preparation can help children care for their braces away from home.
Pack braces-friendly foods. Choose softer options such as sandwiches, pasta, yogurt, cheese, eggs, soft fruit and cooked vegetables. Cut apples, carrots and other firm foods into bite-sized pieces. Avoid hard, sticky or chewy foods that could damage brackets and wires.
Create a braces care kit. Pack a travel toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, orthodontic flossers, wax, a small mirror and lip balm. Brushing after lunch is ideal, but rinsing with water can help when brushing is not possible.
Use a mouthguard for sports. Children and teens who participate in sports should wear an orthodontic mouthguard designed to fit over braces and help protect the teeth, lips, cheeks and appliances.
When Should Children See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can assess how the jaws, permanent teeth and bite are developing.
An early evaluation does not mean your child will need braces immediately. Many children simply need to be monitored until the right time for treatment.
Signs that your child may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- An overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Prolonged thumb or finger sucking
- Teeth or jaws that do not meet properly
Add a Smile Check to Your School-Year Plans
Along with your child’s annual physical and eye exam, remember to schedule their dental checkup and orthodontic evaluation.
With pediatric dental and orthodontic care available in one convenient practice, Main Street Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics can help support your child’s smile through every stage of development. Schedule an appointment today and start the school year with a healthy, confident smile.
