Early bite checks and Phase 1 treatment while your child grows, plus how to care for braces and retainers.
During your child’s exam, we may perform a diagnostic exam that includes a panoramic x-ray. This can help determine when, and if, orthodontic treatment is appropriate.
Part of Dr. Walker’s training includes a strong background in orthodontics, which is important as we monitor the growth, development and spacing of your children’s teeth. Orthodontic treatment in our office is limited to Phase 1 orthodontics. As we monitor growth and development, we can recommend an orthodontist when appropriate.
Some patients benefit from orthodontic treatment before they have all of their permanent teeth. This is called Phase I, or first-phase, orthodontic treatment. It addresses problems that could affect the development of the jaws, teeth or bite down the road.
When Phase I is recommended, it’s usually aimed at a specific problem. We’ll explain what we recommend and why, and what problems might occur without treatment. Phase I orthodontics can prevent problems that become much more severe if not addressed early. Most patients who have Phase I will benefit from a second phase once all of their permanent teeth have grown in.
While wearing braces, your child should brush thoroughly three times a day for 4–5 minutes each time, and floss once a day, paying special attention to food between the braces and the gum line. Have them check in the mirror after brushing and brush again if they see food or white, fuzzy plaque. We’ll show you tools that make cleaning braces easier.
Avoid sticky foods like gum, taffy and caramel, which get stuck and can damage the braces and wires. Also avoid hard foods like ice, croutons, nuts, hard candy and popcorn, which can break wires and appliances. No chewing on fingernails or pencils. Cut apples, corn on the cob and carrots into small bites.
Kids who play sports should wear a braces-specific mouth guard to protect their teeth, their braces and other players. Our office prefers Shock Doctor braces mouth guards. After a hit to the mouth, check for anything loose, and call us to fix anything that’s damaged.
After braces or other appliances, your child will probably get a retainer to keep teeth from shifting back. Retainers are worn for a lifetime: even after many years, teeth will shift if retainers aren’t worn each night.
New patients are always welcome. Call us, request a time online, or schedule directly.
