Knoxville Kids' Directory Blog
Does My Child Need Braces?
“Do you think my child needs braces†is one of the common questions that I hear from parents. Many parents believe that their child’s primary care dentist will identify any problems and refer them for an orthodontic evaluation when and if the need arises for braces. What most parents don’t realize is that the American Association of Orthodontist recommends every child have an orthodontic examination by age 7. This may seem early to most parents since at this age children haven’t lost many baby teeth. These early years are the perfect opportunity for an orthodontist to have his or her first look at your child. Orthodontists have an extra 2 – 3 years of specialty training after dental school to best identify both problems with erupting permanent teeth and the facial growth and development of your child that can be missed by parents and even primary care dentists.
Your child’s first orthodontic examination should include the following procedures:
• a set of photographs of your child’s face and teeth
• a panoramic xray to show all their developing teeth (if one hasn’t already been taken by their primary care dentist)
• a detailed orthodontic examination
• a cephalometric xray if any growth abnormalities are detected
• an explanation of any potential present or possible future issues by an orthodontic dental specialist and how to best correct or prevent these issues
The best part of this is all these services are absolutely no charge (at least they are at most orthodontist offices). The majority of children at age 7 will not require any orthodontic treatment, but certain dental and skeletal issues are best treated early. If these problems aren’t caught and treated early the options for future correction during comprehensive orthodontics (treatment when all the adult teeth are in) can be more limited. This could result in an increased likelihood of extractions of permanent teeth, surgery to bring in teeth that are stuck in the bone, more difficult/longer comprehensive orthodontic treatments, and even jaw surgery.
At East Tennessee Orthodontics we have a special program designed just for our younger patients called our Mountain Climbers Club. This club is for those who have had their initial examination but aren’t ready for orthodontic treatment yet. If no treatment is needed these “mountain climbers†are scheduled every 6 months for another no cost examination so we can determine the most ideal time if and when there is a need for orthodontic treatment. For more information download our free guide at www.bracesknowledge.com.
Summer Plans!
Summer has arrived, Kelly is here to help you plan a successful summer! Check out her interview on Channel 10:
Note from the Editor…
Thank you for picking up the Knoxville Kids’ Directory. As a mom of three busy boys, I know the value of information that makes your life easier. I hope this directory does just that! In this issue you’ll find lots of great summer camp ideas. Summer is such a fun time for kids to start new adventures.
I encourage you to do fun activities with your kids, but also take the time to slow down and enjoy the little, everyday moments. Also included in every issue is our Calendar of Events and our Dine on a Dime section, listing restaurants that offer free or discounted kids meals.
I love living in Knoxville and have a passion for encouraging and helping busy moms. I know from experience that the days are long, but the years are short. Enjoy every moment with your precious kids and remember to laugh along the way. Thanks again for supporting the Knoxville Kids’ Directory and please feel free to let us know how we can better serve you.
Kelly Moss
Focusing on the Why
Working on my to-do list and trying to motivate myself to actually get up and do it. Today is my first day home all week and I have so much to do. But I am so weary due to a busy week and lots of gray skies. I'm reading a good book that is calling my name and my pajamas were so comfy. Some days it's so easy to be productive and get through the list and sometimes it's like trying to move in quicksand. It's days like today that I really have to focus on my WHY. Why do I really need to do what's on my list? Why do I need to go to the store? My family needs a healthy good supper, sitting down for a meal is a priority, I don't have time again to go until Friday afternoon. Why do I need to clean? I want my house to be a relaxing and inviting place for my family to enjoy and a place for them to find refuge from a busy day. A messy or dirty home would not be that. Also, no other time to do it for a few days. I need to exercise? Why? Because it lifts my spirits, it gives me more energy and it gives me a sense of accomplishment. It also keeps me healthier and helps me fit into my clothes. I need to spend one-on-one time with TJ without screens or technology. He needs his momma. He needs that time to feel needed and loved. He is going to school next year and that time won't always be there. What is your why for the things you want or need to do? Remembering your why's is what is going to keep you moving forward and to give your best! Instead of focusing on tasks today focus on the why behind them! #mywhy #thegiftofblooming #newyearnewbeginning #isaiah4319 #sotired
Thanks!
Heather Wright
