From the arrival of a child’s first tooth, pediatric dentistry assumes a key role in shaping your child’s journey toward overall wellness. Regular dental care isn’t just about maintaining a beautiful smile or preventing cavities, it’s a bridge to balanced health during all stages of childhood.

The relationship between your child’s oral health and overall health is known as the oral-systemic connection. This connection refers to the concept that oral health directly influences systemic health and vice versa. This connection is particularly critical during childhood, as it’s a time of rapid growth and development. 

Poor oral health has been linked to health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and hypertension. This is because the harmful bacteria that cause gum disease can travel throughout the body and cause inflammation, leading to serious heart conditions. Similarly, a person’s immune system function is significantly influenced by oral health. By prioritizing oral health through regular visits to a pediatric dentist, parents can play a vital role in supporting their children’s overall wellness and reducing risks of illness now and in the future.

Let’s take a look at 5 other substantial ways regular visits to a skilled pediatric dentist can supercharge your child’s journey toward optimal health and wellness.

1. Pediatric Dentistry Provides Early Intervention and Prevention

Pediatric dentistry’s role extends beyond treatment. It plays a pivotal part in early intervention and preventive care. By introducing children to dental care routines early, pediatric dentists create a foundation for a lifetime of healthy oral hygiene habits.

Regular check-ups allow for early detection of potential issues, from cavities to incorrect bite alignments, enabling timely intervention before they escalate into more significant problems, such as early orthodontic care. Furthermore, preventive measures, such as fluoride treatments and sealants, can effectively mitigate the risk of tooth decay. 

Pediatric dentistry is not just about treating active dental problems, it’s also about proactively preventing them, contributing significantly to long-term childhood wellness.

2. Nutritional Guidance

Proper nutrition plays an essential role in maintaining oral health and overall wellness in children, and pediatric dentists are instrumental in guiding parents and kids on balanced diets and their impact on health.

A varied diet, including essential vitamins and minerals, bolsters enamel strength, prevents gum disease, and supports the development of healthy teeth and bones. Conversely, frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks can lead to cavities and tooth decay.

Pediatric dentists provide comprehensive advice on food choices, demonstrating the interplay between nutrition, oral health, and general well-being. They educate families about the importance of limiting sugar intake; promoting tooth-friendly foods; and incorporating a healthy mix of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and lean proteins into daily meals.

By emphasizing proper nutrition, pediatric dentistry significantly contributes to childhood wellness by fostering healthy oral habits, preventing dental diseases, and enhancing overall health.

3. Speech and Language Development

A child’s oral health is directly linked to their speech and language development, including factors like the alignment and condition of their teeth, the health of oral tissues, and the oral motor skills necessary for speech production. 

Dental issues, such as malocclusion, tooth loss or decay, and oral infections, can hinder normal speech, making it difficult for children to enunciate certain sounds or words. Pediatric dentists can help in identifying and sometimes treating such conditions early on.

Through regular dental check-ups and by following early intervention treatment as necessary, pediatric dentists can detect malformations or abnormalities and intervene promptly with dental procedures or by referring patients to speech-language pathologists when needed. By addressing potential dental concerns, your dentist is helping to safeguard your child’s speech and language skills, further underlining the contribution of pediatric dentistry to childhood wellness.

4. Sleep and Breathing Disorders

Oral health significantly affects sleep-related breathing disorders among children, including problems such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. These disorders can hinder a child’s quality of sleep, leading to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and behavioral issues.

Anatomical aspects, such as enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or certain dental or oral conditions like malocclusion, can contribute to the development of these sleep disorders. Pediatric dentists are proficient in recognizing the tell-tale signs of such disorders during routine dental examinations. For instance, signs like tooth grinding, dry lips, and enlarged tonsils raise red flags for potential sleep-related breathing issues.

If necessary, pediatric dentists can refer your child to a sleep specialist for further evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Some treatment options, such as customized night guards, can be provided directly by a pediatric dentist after a diagnosis has been made.

5. Emotional Well-Being and Dental Anxiety

The emotional aspect of dental care is also integral to childhood wellness, as it can significantly influence a child’s perception of oral hygiene and willingness to engage in dental care practices. 

Armed with a deep understanding of the nervousness and anxiety that children might associate with dentistry, pediatric dentists employ a child-friendly approach to put their little patients at ease. Techniques such as “tell-show-do” (where the dentist explains a procedure in an age-appropriate manner, shows the child the instruments, and then performs the procedure) or using positive reinforcement and distraction techniques, are just two examples of techniques dentists use to alleviate dental anxiety in children. 

These early positive dental experiences support mental health and overall childhood wellness by reducing the anxiety and stress associated with dental care. Many children will carry these positive associations well into their adult years by continuing to prioritize their oral health and seeing a dentist twice a year.

Book your child’s next appointment at Must Love Kids in Vancouver.  

Pediatric dentistry is your ally in promoting childhood wellness. It extends beyond the realm of oral health, playing an instrumental role in preventing common systemic health issues, boosting mental well-being, and fostering a lifelong relationship with healthy dental care habits. Dedicated pediatric dental care practices, like Must Love Kids, provide this and much more. If you’re ready to set your child on the path for a lifetime of oral health, schedule an appointment anytime by calling our office or using our online request form.

Practicing good oral hygiene is the key to preventing tooth decay and gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis. Keeping your smile healthy is even more important when you’re wearing braces because the brackets and wires make it easier for food to become trapped.

A popular myth is that braces cause cavities, but this isn’t true. Braces alone won’t cause tooth decay, but because they make oral hygiene a bit trickier, a change in brushing frequency and products is necessary to reduce the risk of cavities.

Here are five things children and teens should do to keep their teeth healthy and clean while wearing braces.

1. Brush more often than usual, particularly after meals or snacks. 

Normally, brushing twice daily for two minutes is enough to keep teeth healthy, but this is no longer the case when wearing metal braces. Brackets and wires mean there is more surface area and more small nooks for food debris, bad bacteria, and plaque to get trapped.

Orthodontists and dentists recommend brushing after every meal to combat any buildup of food and plaque development. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and take it slowly to ensure teeth are thoroughly cleaned above and below the brackets. It might take longer than two minutes to brush everywhere, especially when braces are new.

Since the brackets and wires can be abrasive, toothbrushes usually wear out more quickly, so parents may need to replace them every one to two months. Frayed bristles drastically impact how well a toothbrush can clean.

2. Stock up on interdental brushes for those hard-to-reach spots. 

Interdental brushes, also called proxy brushes, are very useful dental care tools for cleaning in and around braces. They are small handheld tools with a cleaning end that resembles a tiny pipe cleaner. The bristles help remove food and brush away plaque, while their small size can get into tight spaces toothbrushes can’t.

Properly using an interdental cleaner is easy, but it can take some getting used to at first. These tools come in different sizes, so we recommend trying out a few options to see which are the right sizes for your braces. Once you have the right size, bend the head to form a 90-degree angle and begin cleaning between the wire along the surface of the teeth.

Dr. Mo can show you how to use an interdental cleaner, but if you need a refresher, you can find plenty of videos on YouTube demonstrating how to use these tools.

3. Bump up your daily flossing habit and try using flosser tools. 

Remember that brushing and interdental cleaners aren’t alternatives to flossing. Flossing daily is the minimum recommendation, but kids with braces can floss twice daily, especially after big meals.

String floss is normally the best way to remove plaque and debris in between teeth, but chances aren’t it won’t work very well for braces. Your child can still use string floss if they have teeth without wires or brackets, but otherwise, try using flossers. There is a type called an orthodontic flosser that is specifically designed to make flossing with braces easier.

4. Finish your oral hygiene routine with braces-friendly mouthwash. 

Mouthwash is a great way to finish a routine of flossing, interdental cleaner, and brushing. It flushes out any remaining food debris and cleanses the soft tissues in the mouth from any lingering bacteria.

Most mouthwash is safe for braces, but we recommend using an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash with antibacterial properties. Alcohol dehydrates, so avoiding products with this ingredient can help your child if they have a dry mouth. Antibacterial properties will still kill bad germs, which is what alcohol normally does anyway.

Fluoride is a great ingredient for supporting strong, healthy teeth and preventing tooth decay, two very important things for children wearing braces. If you’re overwhelmed by all the mouthwash options, call us, and we’ll help you choose the right one.

5. Don’t delay orthodontic appointments or skip your regular dentist.

Wearing braces means you’ll be visiting a dentist more often than usual. It might not seem like your braces are doing much, but they’re slowly making big changes to your smile. Their progress needs to be closely monitored, adjustments made, and wires tightened to ensure your treatment time is as short as possible.

If you’re seeing an orthodontist for braces, you’ll also need to continue seeing a regular dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Better yet, come to Must Love Kids for complete dental care, including orthodontics, all under one roof.

Dr. Mo takes care of children’s teeth and their braces treatment, too!

Orthodontists aren’t the only dental care professionals who provide braces. Dr. Mo is a pediatric dentist offering several orthodontic solutions for her patients. Most orthodontic cases in children can be easily treated at Must Love Kids, with only the most complex malocclusions (bad bites) requiring a referral to an orthodontic specialist.

Seeing Dr. Mo for orthodontic care greatly benefits parents and children alike. As a parent, you can rest assured that your child will receive the superior level of care they’re already accustomed to as a Must Love Kids patient. Children also feel more comfortable and relaxed knowing their orthodontic appointments are with the same dental care team they’ve grown to love. If your child needs braces in the future or you’re interested in transferring their orthodontic treatment to our office, contact our Vancouver pediatric dentistry office today.

Are you ready to get braces?

Getting braces is an exciting milestone for lots of kids. And don’t worry, you’re not alone. An estimated 4 million people in the US wear braces at any given time. But even though braces are pretty common, we know you probably have a lot of questions. However, reading an FAQ list (frequently asked questions) can be a bit boring. So, we’ve tried to make it a bit more fun, associating everything you need to know about orthodontic treatment with the ABCs.

Before we start, learn about the ABCs of oral health, too. We made it easy for you with two fun articles, starting with A through M, and then N through Z, so you can become an expert in oral health, just like Dr. Mo at your dental office in Vancouver, Washington.

Now, get ready to brace yourself with our alphabetical reading adventure!

A — Appliances

Orthodontic appliances are tools used by dentists and orthodontists to help straighten your teeth. They can be braces, aligners, or other devices that work together to give you a beautiful smile.

B — Brackets

Brackets are small, square-shaped pieces attached to your teeth that hold the wires in place. They come in different colors and are like tiny superheroes working to align your teeth.

C — Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth are the main reason many kids get braces. They gently apply pressure to guide crooked teeth into proper alignment, giving you a smile that will light up the room!

D — Duration of Treatment

The duration of your braces treatment depends on how your teeth need to move. It can take several months to a few years. But remember, the time will fly by, and the result will be worth it!

E — Elastics

Elastics, also known as rubber bands, are often used with braces. They help align your bite by connecting different parts of your brackets and wires together. Think of them as the superhero sidekicks, working hard to make sure your teeth fit together perfectly.

F — Foods To Avoid

While wearing braces, it’s important to steer clear of sticky, chewy, and hard foods that can damage your brackets and wires or get stuck. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of delicious treats you can enjoy during your orthodontic journey. Stick to mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, soft fruits, and cheeses, pancakes, and pasta.

G — Gum

Chewing gum is a big no-no when you have braces because it can get stuck and cause trouble. But once they come off, you’ll enjoy all the gum-chewing fun, but stick to sugar-free gum, which is better for your teeth.

H — Hygiene

Keeping your teeth and braces clean is super important. Brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing daily will help prevent dental “villains” from causing problems during orthodontic treatments.

I — Impressions

During your orthodontic journey, your dentist or orthodontist may take impressions of your teeth. It’s like creating a special mold to help them plan and design the perfect treatment for your smile.

J — Jaw

Braces not only straighten your teeth but also help align your jaw. They work their magic to ensure your bite is comfortable, prevent jaw pain, and keep your jaws in harmony.

K — Kissing

Ah, the topic that makes cheeks turn rosy! Now, for all the curious minds wondering about kissing with braces, here’s the scoop. While waiting until you’re old enough to engage in romantic adventures is always important, rest assured, brackets and wires won’t cause any sticky situations. So pucker up, enjoy the sweet moments, and if you need some expert tips on kissing with braces, check out this handy guide.

L — Loose Brackets

Sometimes, a bracket may become loose or detach from a tooth. If that happens, don’t worry! Just let your dentist know, and they’ll fix it for you. It’s all part of the adventure.

M — Mouth Guards

If you’re involved in sports, it’s important to protect your teeth and braces with a mouth guard. Your dentist or orthodontist can provide a special one that fits perfectly over your braces.

N — New Wire

Throughout your treatment, you’ll visit your dentist regularly for adjustments. These adjustments may include changing to a new wire, which helps continue the progress of aligning your teeth.

O — Orthodontist

Dr. Mo is a pediatrician who can also practice orthodontics. She is a superhero who specializes in creating beautiful smiles for kids and is here to guide you through your orthodontic journey.

P — Pain

While braces may feel slightly uncomfortable at first or during adjustments, any pain is usually temporary. Your dentist will ensure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout your treatment.

Q — Quick Appointments

Orthodontic appointments are usually quick and easy. Dr. Mo will check on your progress, make any necessary adjustments, and answer any questions you may have. She’ll have you in and out faster than a superhero in action!

R — Retainers

Once your braces come off, you’ll likely need to wear a retainer. Retainers help maintain the beautiful smile your orthodontic treatment created by keeping your teeth in their new positions.

S — Straight Teeth

The ultimate goal of braces is to give you a set of straight teeth that will make you feel confident and proud to show off your smile. Say hello to picture-perfect teeth!

T — Treatment Plan

Your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan just for you. They will map out the steps needed to achieve your dream smile and guide you through the process.

U — Unique Style

Braces are not just ordinary dental tools; they can be a chance to show off your unique style! You can choose colorful bands for your brackets that reflect your personality or even experiment with different patterns. Embrace the opportunity to express yourself and let your braces become a fun and fashionable accessory during your orthodontic journey.

V — Veneers

Veneers are thin shells that can be placed on the front of teeth to improve their appearance. While braces focus on moving your natural teeth, veneers are an alternative option for some cases.

W — Wire adjustments

During your orthodontic visits, your dentist may adjust the wires on your braces to help move your teeth in the right direction. It’s like fine-tuning your braces for optimal results.

X — X-rays

X-rays are images that show your dentist what’s happening inside your mouth. They’re like superhero goggles that help them see if any hidden villains affect your smile.

Y — Youthfulness

Getting braces at a young age brings a special advantage—it harnesses the power of youthfulness! When you start orthodontic treatment early, your growing bones and flexible gums make it easier for brackets and wires to guide your teeth into proper alignment. This means that by the time you reach your teenage years, you’ll already have a radiant smile that will make you feel confident and ready to conquer the world. So, embrace the opportunity to start your braces journey early and let your youthful spirit shine through your ever-brightening smile!

Z — Zzzz (Sleeping With Braces)

Sleeping with braces is no big deal! Your dentist will provide tips on ensuring you’re comfortable catching superhero-worthy Zzzs.

Sing it with me—braces for kids are as easy as the ABCs!

Kids’ braces can be an exciting adventure that leads to a stunning smile and newfound confidence. We’ve explored the ABCs of orthodontics, unlocking the secrets of orthodontic treatment while keeping it fun and informative. If you’re ready to embark on this incredible journey, the team at Must Love Kids, a dental office in Vancouver, Washington, is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your braces consultation with Dr. Mo and get ready to rock your braces for kids’ journey like a true superhero!

However, technology can come to the rescue! With the advent of various tech products, oral care for children has become much easier and more fun. And the Must Love Kids team has made it a bit easier for you by providing insights into some of the latest technologies and tricks that can help make oral care a breeze for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens.

Technology for oral care? There’s an app for that!

According to Zippia, over 5.7 million apps are available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store sites combined. There are over 2.6 million apps available for Android on Google Play too. The average American has 80 or more apps downloaded on their mobile devices. Suffice it to say, it stands to reason there are apps out there dedicated to oral care. And if you put an app and a mobile device in front of a child, the chances are that they’re more likely to pay attention.

The biggest challenge we see when it comes to oral care is remembering to brush and brushing long enough each time. Teenagers always have something better to do, making it easy to forget to brush their teeth, especially before bed. And for toddlers and preschoolers, two minutes (the recommended amount of time dentists suggest you spend brushing your teeth), can seem like an eternity.

Thankfully, technology makes things easier, both in terms of mobile apps and in toothbrushes themselves. So let’s start with some apps that can make tooth brushing more fun and not something that gets put to the bottom of the to-do list each day (or forgotten altogether).

• Our favorite app for teens and adults is the Disney Magic Timer by Oral-B. Now, don’t get dissuaded because we said Disney. Trust us, this one is fun. With an array of beloved Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars characters, this app allows you to motivate yourself and your kids effortlessly, to brush for a longer period. 
• If Disney isn’t your piece of cake, then you might like the Brush DJ app. This app adds an element of fun and entertainment to an otherwise mundane task. The app’s features, such as music playlists, reminders, and oral hygiene tips, make brushing a more engaging and interactive experience.
• Have younger kids? Chomper Chums is designed to teach children between the ages of 3 to 11 proper brushing techniques interactively and engagingly, with a vibrant and colorful interface. Children can choose and personalize their animated characters from three options: an alligator, horse, or lion. As a reward for brushing correctly, children earn coins they can use to purchase food for their chosen character. To keep the animal healthy, kids must brush regularly and feed them nutritious snacks, thereby understanding the link between oral hygiene and healthy eating habits. This innovative approach makes brushing fun and educational for kids.

Toothbrushing songs that will leave the songs in your head forever. 

You know how those certain songs, once you hear a line or two, just stick in your head all day? They’re the songs we all love to hate. But when it comes to getting your little one to brush their teeth, the repetition and familiarity that comes from one or two toothbrushing songs that are played each time your kid brushes can come in handy.

These songs are timed for approximately two minutes each to help ensure your child brushes long enough. But to make it even better, the lyrics include helpful hints to ensure your child knows how to brush properly. Here are three of our favorites:

• Brush Your Teeth by Super Simple Songs
• Brush Your Teeth by OwlyBird Songs & Stories for Kids 
• Kids Just Love to Brush from Sesame Street 

Each song can easily be downloaded or played via your Wi-Fi connection on your mobile device. And they are accompanied by fun and engaging videos to keep your little ones entertained throughout the process.

Powered toothbrushes for the win.

Another great way to help your child take more control over their at-home dental care is to invest in a powered toothbrush for kids or let your child pick out their own toothbrush at the local store. Just like the toothbrushes adults enjoy that keep them from scrubbing too hard or for not long enough, kids have great options. We personally like the Sonic Brush for Kids, Philips Sonicare for Kids, and the Oral-B Advanced Cavity Protection Kids Bundle.

But just as a powered toothbrush can help your child improve their oral health, so too will games that teach great habits about how to brush properly. Check out the Toothsavers Brushing Game which is a free app created by the 2min2x initiative, aimed at motivating children to brush twice daily for two minutes.

Through interactive games, kids can observe how brushing removes food particles and eliminates bacteria, unlocking new characters as they progress along a map of a kingdom that can only be unlocked through regular brushing. The app also features a two-minute video demonstration that guides kids on brushing their teeth and each area of their mouth. Parents can establish brushing schedules and receive push notifications, reminding them of their kids’ brushing time.

The Baby Panda: Dental Care game is another great option available for download. This game lets your child immerse themself in the role of a dentist, responsible for maintaining the oral health of adorable little animals. Your child can manage the dental salon, clean and care for their teeth, and hone their skills to become an excellent dentist.

Need more help getting toddlers and teens to brush their teeth? We can help!

If you have tried everything you can to get your kids to brush their teeth and it still isn’t going well, then you should know that Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry can help. Contact us and request an appointment for your child today. We’ll do a professional dental cleaning and oral evaluation. And we’ll talk to your child about the importance of good oral health and dental care. Often, a gentle nudge by a kid’s dentist and some fun mobile apps for at-home oral health is all it takes.

Some fun facts about the history of braces. 

If your child is about to get braces or recently got braces, they might find it interesting to understand some fun facts about how we got to where we are today. Plus, they should know they are not alone in getting braces. Over four million people in the U.S. wear braces. And while most people who get braces are kids and teens, approximately 25% of those with braces are adults (so mom and dad, you might find these facts interesting, too).

So let’s step into the time machine and travel back to ancient times. We’ll explore how our ancestors dealt with crooked teeth, and discover some of the earliest known attempts at orthodontic treatment. First stop—ancient Egypt! You might be surprised that braces were even found on mummies from thousands of years ago. But that’s not all—the Ancient Romans also made their own attempts at straightening teeth among the living. Let’s take a closer look at these fascinating stories from the past.

• Braces were found on mummies from ancient Egypt, made from materials like animal intestines and plant fibers.
• The Ancient Romans were the first to attempt to straighten teeth among the living, using finger pressure to push teeth into place.
• Roman philosopher and physician Aulus Cornelius Celsus even wrote about his attempts at correcting tooth irregularities using appliances made from gold wire.
• Despite these early attempts, orthodontics didn’t become a recognized dental specialty until the 20th century.

So yes! A beautiful smile was important even way back when!

Modern braces were introduced back in 1819.

Believe it or not, braces, as we know them today, have been around since the early 19th century! That’s long before today’s great-grandparents were even born. In 1819, a French dentist named Christophe-Francois Delabarre invented modern braces made of a flat metal strip connected to the teeth by a thread. But it wasn’t until the 20th century that braces became a typical orthodontic treatment, thanks to the father of orthodontics himself, Dr. Edward Angle.

Dr. Angle developed the first classification system for tooth irregularities and established the principles of modern orthodontics. He also invented the first brackets and wires, made of gold and much more effective than Delabarre’s original design.

Since then, braces continue to develop and improve. In the mid-20th century, stainless steel braces were introduced, which were more durable and practical than their gold predecessors. The 1970s brought the invention of lingual braces which are attached to the back of the teeth and less visible than traditional braces.

In recent years, braces have become even more advanced with the introduction of clear ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and Invisalign aligners. With all of these options, orthodontic treatment is more accessible and comfortable than ever before.

So, while braces may have started out as a simple metal strip connected by thread, they have come a long way in the past 200 years. And who knows? With all the advancements in technology, we may see even more exciting developments in the future of orthodontics!

Have you mastered the history of braces? Take this quiz and find out.

So, let’s see if you can answer some questions about the history of braces, and what you can expect from modern braces.

1. Who invented modern braces?
2. How did Ancient Egyptians straighten their teeth?
3. What did the Ancient Romans use to straighten teeth?
4. What is the father of orthodontics known for?
5. What are some modern types of braces?
6. Do braces rust?
7. Do braces interfere with radio signals?

Answer key:

1. Answer: Christophe-Francois Delabarre, a French dentist, invented modern braces in 1819.
2. Answer: Ancient Egyptians used metal bands around their teeth with a string attached and tightened over time to straighten their teeth.
3. Answer: Ancient Romans used their fingers to push teeth into place.
4. Answer: Dr. Edward Angle is known for developing the first classification system for tooth irregularities and inventing the first brackets and wires made of gold.
5. Answer: Some modern braces include clear ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and Invisalign aligners.
6. Answer: Nope! This is a common myth about braces. Stainless steel and titanium are the most commonly used materials for braces due to their corrosion-resistant properties. These metals are well-suited for dental work since they do not rust or deteriorate easily.
7. Answer: No, this is one of those myths about braces that need to be debunked. The urban legend of braces being able to pick up radio signals is entirely false. The metal used to create braces cannot intercept or interfere with radio signals, making this urban legend impossible.

Let’s talk braces at your child’s next appointment with Must Love Kids.

Your Vancouver pediatric dentistry team loves discussing the history of orthodontics and braces for kids. After all, we want your child to have a beautiful smile as much as you do. So, if your child has crooked teeth and you think they need braces, request an appointment today. We’ll look at your child’s teeth and tell you the best course of action to give them the best smile possible. We look forward to hearing from you.

Why wearing your retainer is so important.

We get it. Wearing your retainer can be frustrating. Once those braces came off, you wanted to be done with all of that orthodontic stuff. But the truth is even though your teeth are now straight and you have the smile you’ve always wanted, your teeth can shift in your mouth and move back to their former position. 

Here’s what can happen if you don’t wear your retainer per your dentist’s instructions:

• Your teeth can shift, creating a renewed risk for tooth decay and gum disease
• Your retainer won’t fit anymore and your parents will need to buy you a new one
• You may have to repeat your treatment (yes, this means you might need to get braces again)

For all of these reasons and more, we implore you to do everything you can to wear your retainer, so your newly straightened teeth stay healthy and happy.

Tips for wearing your retainer consistently.

First of all, if you’re at the point where your braces treatment has ended and you’re trying to do a better job of wearing your retainer, we’d be remiss if we didn’t say congratulations. It’s worth celebrating that you have completed your orthodontic treatment and now have a beautiful smile! However, the work doesn’t stop there. 

To maintain your new smile, wearing your retainer as instructed by Dr. Mo, your pediatric dentist who practices orthodontics, is crucial. And pay attention to how long you need to wear your retainer too. In most cases, patients need to wear their retainer all day, every day, for four months. Other patients need to wear theirs for 12 months. And yet other patients need to wear their retainers nightly, indefinitely.

Here are some tips to help you wear your retainer consistently and successfully.

1. Set yourself up for success.

First and foremost, it’s essential to understand why wearing your retainer is important. Remembering the benefits of wearing your retainer can motivate you to wear it regularly. Wearing your retainer will help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their former position, will ensure your parents don’t need to buy you a new one and can help prevent you from needing a repeat treatment. 

But, if you’re struggling to wear your retainer, it’s important to pinpoint why that is. Do you keep losing it? Do you forget to clean it? Is it uncomfortable to wear?

2. Find solutions to your struggles.

If you keep losing your retainer, keep it in a larger container in a specific spot where you’ll always find it. If you forget to clean your retainer, download a habit-tracking app and set a reminder to clean it regularly. Apps like Streaks or HabitNow could help.

If you find it uncomfortable to wear, talk to Dr. Mo. She can adjust your retainer or recommend other solutions to make it more comfortable.

3. Find an accountability buddy.

Having someone to hold you accountable can make a big difference. Whether it’s a friend or sibling who is also wearing a retainer or someone who is helping you establish another habit, check in with each other regularly and support each other. You can always lean on your parents to help you remember.

4. Reframe your thinking.

Instead of thinking of wearing your retainer as a chore, reframe your thinking. Think of it as a way to maintain your new smile with less effort than when you had braces. Tell yourself that you’re committed to putting in the work to wear your retainer and maintain your new smile. After all, who doesn’t want a selfie-ready smile?

5. Be honest with your dentist.

Dr. Mo can tell whether you’ve been wearing your retainer as directed. It’s essential to be honest with her about your struggles. She can offer solutions or adjustments to your retainer to make it more comfortable.

Let Dr. Mo know if you are struggling to wear your retainer. 

Trust us, you’re not the first person to be frustrated because you either forget to wear your retainer or find it annoying. But thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way. We can help you better understand why wearing your retainer is important. And if it is uncomfortable, it shouldn’t be that way. Dr. Mo can help make the adjustments to make wearing your retainer after braces almost like it isn’t even there. 

Have your parents request an appointment today with your kid’s dentist in Vancouver, WA, to talk to us about any help you need with your orthodontic retainer. We want to help you keep that smile, selfie, and Snapchat ready. 

Many first-time parents aren’t sure when they can expect their child to start cutting their first tooth. Just like other milestones in children, don’t compare your child to any other child, because each develops at their own rate. However, you can use this as a guide to see where your baby stands in comparison to other babies.

Maybe they’re born with it.

Did you know that some babies are born with a tooth or two that have already erupted? They are called natal teeth and only happen about 1 in every 2,000 births. So while it is uncommon, parents shouldn’t be shocked if their baby is born with teeth already erupted. There is no reason to worry about the baby’s teeth, unless there is a problem when it comes to feeding your new baby.

Babies can also have neonatal teeth, which are teeth that appear within a few weeks of being born. These types of teeth are even more rare than natal teeth. These types of teeth often appear quickly, so your baby might not experience any of the normal teething symptoms.

So, when does the first tooth usually erupt?

While every baby is different, most babies will experience their first tooth eruption around six to nine months.

Your baby’s first teeth are normally the bottom two front teeth. Those are known as the central incisors. The next teeth to appear are usually the top four front teeth, which are known as the central and lateral incisors.

A baby’s teeth usually erupt in pairs, or two at a time. Their teeth also normally come in at a rate of four new baby teeth every six months. Your baby will continue to get their baby, or primary, teeth until they are close to two and a half years old. 

A child gets about 20 primary teeth, and they should all have erupted by the time they are close to the age of three, with the molars being the last teeth to erupt in your child’s mouth.

If you are looking for an average time table of when your child should get teeth, here is what a pediatrician or dentist will say:

• 4 teeth before the first birthday
• 8 teeth by 15 months old
• 12 teeth by a year and a half
• 16 teeth around baby’s second birthday

All About Teething

Before your child’s teeth erupt, or break through the gums, they will experience teething, and those symptoms can include the following:

• Chewing on various items
• Crying
• Drooling
• Face rash from excessive drooling
• Flushed cheeks
• Irritability
• Pulling on their ears
• Refusing to eat, or having a hard time eating
• Slight fever of around 99 degrees Fahrenheit
• Swollen or sore gums
• Trouble sleeping

Not all babies will experience these symptoms of teething, but they are the most common symptoms that teething babies have. In fact, sometimes a baby won’t show any symptoms of teething at all and parents will be surprised to see the small white tooth erupting from the gum.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby

As your baby begins teething, you might be looking for ways to help comfort them. One of the best home remedies for teething is using a smooth, cold object against your baby’s gums where they are teething. Don’t use something that is frozen, because that is too cold. Instead, use a teething ring that has been chilled, and allow your baby to suck on that to help them soothe their gums. You can also help relieve your baby’s teething pain by gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or knuckle. If your baby is already eating solids, a chilled fruit or vegetable can help relieve some teething pain and help your baby find some relief.

Be sure to visit Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry!

As a parent, you want to ensure your baby’s teeth are coming in properly, so it’s important to make sure your baby has their first dental checkup around the time their first tooth erupts, or at the latest, by their first birthday. The team at Must Love Kids loves our little patients, and we are always willing to answer any questions related to your little one’s oral health. Give us a call today if you have any teething questions, or email us to schedule an appointment today. Dr. Mo and Dr. G  can’t wait to see you!

Tips to Talking to Your Kids About Braces 

Some kids experience anxiety before their orthodontic evaluation, worrying they will need braces. And when they finally find out they’ll need them, they’ll likely have many questions. Being open and honest with your child will make them feel like they are part of the decision and better understand what to expect and the benefits they will experience when the braces finally come off. Consider the following tips when talking to your kids about braces.

1. Practice open and honest communication.

We can’t hit this one home enough. Make orthodontics part of your everyday conversations, and don’t sugarcoat the experience. Braces are a time commitment, and some kids will need to wear their braces for one to three years. Even for an adult, this can seem like a long time. But for your kid, that time feels like an eternity. Understand that this entire concept might be intimidating, and accept their emotions. For some kids, braces can affect their self-esteem, inconveniencing them. No matter what you do, avoid under-validating their feelings.

2. Be excited if your child is excited about their braces.

Believe it or not, some kids will be excited about getting braces. They’ll look forward to sharing the same experience in which so many of their friends participate. Getting them might make them feel like they’re part of the in-crowd. So if your child is excited about it, be excited right along with them. The last thing you want to do is let your anxiety overshadow their enthusiasm. So embrace it and celebrate together the fantastic smile they will have when their treatment is over.

3. Talk to them about what to expect.

There are a few things your child should be prepared for when it comes to getting their orthodontic treatment.

• There will be some pain and discomfort for the first few days after they get their braces and each time they are tightened. But this discomfort is short-lived and can be easily managed with over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers.
• They will be limited in the foods they can eat. While your child is going through treatment, they will need to avoid popcorn, nuts, hard taco shells, gum, pretzels, hard or sticky candies, corn chips, and hard cookies or crackers. Parents may also want to avoid these foods during their child’s braces treatment, so they don’t feel alone.
• There will be several follow-up appointments throughout their orthodontic treatment. But don’t worry; the Must Love Kids team pulls out all the stops to make these appointments as efficient and easy as possible.
• They may need to wear a retainer after their braces come off. This is a great way to protect that investment for the years to come.

4. Be reassuring.

While it is vital to stay firm, parents should also be reassuring to their children. Reassure your child that lots of kids get braces, and they all come out better on the other side. Getting this treatment is essential for their oral health and will give them a smile to be proud of.

5. Encourage confidence and self-worth.

Teaching your child to embrace their strengths and accept their imperfections is a great way to build confidence. Though this isn’t something that should start just because your child is getting braces, it is essential to teach them that they are worthy. Here are some tips for teaching your child to be confident in who they are.

• Praise efforts, but don’t overpraise.
• Be a good role model.
• Avoid harsh criticisms.
• Teach consequences for poor behaviors, but ensure consequences fit the crime (don’t over or under punish).
• Focus on strengths.
• Teach your child to have a giving nature.

Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry is your partner for braces for kids.

If your child needs braces, the Must Love Kids team can help. Our board-certified dentists are family friendly and caring. We know you want the best for your children, and we want that too. Let’s work together to instill great dental habits in your child and a positive orthodontic experience.

Request an appointment for your child today and set them on a path to a beautiful smile they will be proud of.

Braces care is a great way to instill responsibility in your teen.

As kids age, their brain development allows them to take on more responsibilities. For example, a pre-teen (age 10 to 12) is old enough to pack their school lunch, take care of their bodily hygiene, stay home alone for a few hours, etc. While the level of responsibility can vary from child to child, most kids at this age are old enough to practice a good oral care routine at home, including brushing, flossing, etc. They are even old enough to care for their braces. If your child has ADHD or other special needs, additional supervision may be required, but the points below may still apply.

Here are a few tips to help your child care for their own braces.

Let your child embrace technology, even for their braces.

Yes, there’s an app for that. If your pre-teen or teen always has their nose in their phone, encourage them to download the BracesHelp app. This app contains valuable information, pictures, and even videos to help your teen care for their braces.

Trust them.

Kids at this age like to feel they are trusted and can make their own decisions. Trusting your child can pay off in various ways, too, including:

• They will trust you more.
• They’re more likely to come to you with serious issues (and if they do, be cautious of your reaction).
• They’ll feel more confident in themselves and their ability to make future decisions.
• They’ll believe in themselves, and their self-confidence will grow.

The result of trusting your child is that they’ll be more likely to take better care of their responsibilities. And don’t worry—a trusted child will often offer mutual respect, coming to you when they have questions or need help.

Be open and honest.

Along with trust, be open and honest with your child. A policy of honesty and an open door can encourage the same for your child. But as part of this, teach your child how to advocate for themselves and consider the following.

• Please encourage your child to speak for themselves at the dentist. Let them ask the majority of the questions first. Don’t worry; you can ask any remaining questions later. You may be surprised to find many of your questions already answered.
• Let your child take the lead when they arrive for their orthodontic appointments. Before long, they’ll know the routine, and you’ll find yourself flipping through magazines in the waiting room.
• Talk to your child about any fears they have about getting braces. Never under-validate their fears or concerns. Listen to what they have to say—hear them out.
• Let your child be involved with decisions related to their braces care. This doesn’t mean they get to make the decision not to get braces. But allow them to voice their opinions along the way, and where there are choices, give them a vote.
• While you may want to remind them to clean their braces occasionally, try to back off. Backing off shows that you trust them. You may be surprised that when you back off, your child does more of what you wanted them to do in the first place.
• Give your child some autonomy. Let your child decide which oral hygiene supplies to get. They can’t go wrong if the product is ADA-approved or recommended by their dentist. So let them pick the water flosser they like best or the colored bands they want. This will go a long way in helping your child build their independence.
• At some point, your child will have to consent to hospital care, medical or surgical diagnosis, or treatment by a physician, dentist, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner without the consent of a parent or guardian of the minor. Prepare for this by asking before you share your child’s medical information—in general, but this includes braces. 
• Be honest with your own mistakes. When your kids see you aren’t perfect, they’ll be more likely to come to you with their mistakes too. For example, mentioning how it’s hard to brush your teeth on days when your mental health is down can help.
• Remember that occasional, genuine compliments can go a long way in helping build your child’s self-confidence and positive body image. So when you catch your kid doing an excellent job with their oral care, be sure to say something and recognize their efforts. 

Let your child own their braces care and orthodontics at Vancouver Pediatric Dentistry.

The team at Must Love Kids loves working with kids who are involved in their braces care. So, whether your child has braces now or will need them in the future, we’d love to help. Request an appointment for your child today and set them on a great path to responsible braces care, and a great smile.

Why is my child complaining of tooth pain?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 40% of adults report tooth pain in a given year. And if that statistic isn’t staggering enough, an average of 34 million school hours are lost each year due to dental emergencies for kids who require unplanned care. That’s a lot of missed time spent battling tooth pain that could have been prevented.

So when it comes to tooth pain in kids, what are the typical causes?

1. Cavities

Cavities, also called dental caries, are formed by tooth decay. And tooth decay forms over time, starting with the development of plaque that then begins to attack the teeth, and destruction begins. Cavities often result in a toothache, as the pulp inside the tooth swells and become irritated from the bacteria. Since there is no place for the swelling to expand inside the tooth, the nerve is compressed, resulting in pain. In the most severe cases, discomfort can extend beyond the tooth root to the bone.

But if your child has a cavity, you should know they aren’t alone. According to the CDC, 57% of kids age 12 to 19 have had a cavity in their permanent teeth. And about 90% of adults age 20 or over have had a cavity too.

2. Tooth Abscess 

A bacterial infection causes a tooth abscess. Abscesses are pockets of pus that can occur in different areas near the tooth for various reasons. Dental abscesses are quite painful and can be very dangerous if not treated, so it is important to know the signs and symptoms.

• Severe, constant throbbing toothache 
• Pain or discomfort with hot and cold temperatures
• Pain, discomfort, or sensitive teeth with the pressure of chewing or biting
• Fever
• Swelling in the face, cheek, or neck 
• Tender, swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in the mouth that comes on suddenly
• Pain relief, if the abscess ruptures

Though dental abscesses are less common in children, they do happen. An untreated abscess can cause tooth loss and travel to the surrounding lymph nodes, the heart, and the brain. If your child shows signs of an abscess, you must contact their pediatric dentist as soon as possible.

3. Dentin Hypersensitivity 

The dentin in your tooth is the protective layer beneath your enamel that guards the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. When the dentin loses the protection of enamel, those narrow pathways let heat and cold or sticky and acidic foods stimulate the nerves and cells inside the tooth. The result is dentin hypersensitivity (also called tooth sensitivity).

If your child is experiencing dental hypersensitivity, their pediatric dentist near Vancouver, WA, will likely recommend self-care products, including tooth powders, toothpaste, mouth rinses, and chewing gum. Know that cold and hot drinks and foods can contribute to tooth pain, and the teeth may be sensitive to toothbrushing and flossing. Be sure to let the dentist know so a treatment plan can be determined.

4. Broken or Cracked Tooth

Surprisingly enough, broken or cracked teeth aren’t all that uncommon. Rough play and sports, accidents like slips and falls, etc., can cause a broken tooth before you know it. And if your child breaks or cracks a tooth, chewing can cause movement of the pieces, and the pulp can become irritated. If your child has a broken or cracked tooth, have them rinse their mouth with warm water to clean the area, and apply a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to prevent swelling. Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as Advil and Tylenol, can reduce swelling and pain until you can get your child to the dentist.

5. Sinus infection

Sometimes, tooth pain is not related to the tooth or a problem in the mouth at all. But since the largest sinuses are located above the back teeth of the upper jaw and the roots of the upper teeth are located close to the sinus cavity, inflammation in the sinuses might cause pain in nearby teeth. Common symptoms of a sinus infection include the following:

• Postnasal drip
• Greenish-colored nasal discharge
• Nasal stuffiness
• Congestion
• Tenderness of the face under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose
• Tooth pain
• Headaches on the forehead or front of the face
• Coughing
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Halitosis (bad breath)

Contact Must Love Kids if your child has a toothache.

If your child is experiencing tooth pain, request an appointment with the team at Must Love Kids. We’ll help get to the root cause of the pain and help them feel better as soon as possible. No one likes to see kids suffer unnecessarily. We look forward to helping you and providing recommendations on good oral health to prevent future toothaches.