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Orthodontics for Kids

What is the best age for treatment?

The American Dental Association recommends that a child’s first visit to the family dentist be between the ages of 6 months and 12 months, while the child’s primary baby teeth are erupting.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child’s first visit to an orthodontist take place when an orthodontic problem is first detected, whether it is a jaw problem, tooth problem, or both. This first orthodontic checkup should be NO LATER THAN AGE 7 even though active treatment (braces) will usually not start for several more years. At Dr. Fischer’s office, there is no charge for this initial visit.

Habits to Avoid While in Braces

Fingernail biting, chewing on pens/pencils, etc. are to be completely avoided.

Foods To Avoid While in Braces

The rule of thumb is: Nothing HARD, CHEWY, or STICKY!! Soooo, no chewing gum except Freedent gum, caramels, taffy or other sticky foods. (Hershey bars are OK.) Instead of raw carrots, eat cooked carrots and vegetables. NO chewing ice with braces! Good news - PEANUT BUTTER is OK!!! (Yeah!)

Remember - your braces are nice, delicate appliances that need to do a lot of important work for YOU! Treat them carefully so they can give you the most fantastic smile ever, and in the shortest period of time possible.

Tooth Brushing

In addition to being careful with your braces, one of the other most important responsibilities you have is keeping your teeth, gums and braces IMMACULATELY CLEAN. This means brushing after you eat anything! Sooo, you are going to brush after breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. After eating lunch at school, rinse out really well at the water fountain and/or use the pocket toothbrush Dr. Fischer's office provides. That way, you are not showing everyone what you ate at your last meal (gross!!).

Color of Braces

Lots of Colors Available!

When you come into the office for your adjustment appointment each month, many times you will have your wire(s) retied and you will have a choice of what color ties you would like.

When Braces Come Off, Essex Retainers

When it is time for your retainer, you will be given a "state-of-the-art" retainer which keeps your teeth locked into the correct position after treatment. Not only are they clear and almost invisible, they are also very comfortable to wear and east to keep clean.

They are to be worn full-time for the first 3 weeks, except when brushing or eating. After that, they are to be worn EVERY NIGHT for the time determined by Dr. Fischer, usually several years. (Get used to it!) The teeth will not move out of place as long as you wear your retainers.