Dentures and Dentist

Orthodontia Tips and Ideas for Parents of Children With Sensory Processing Disorder

17 August 2015

Julian Andrews

If you have a child with sensory processing disorder or other sensory issues, orthodontic treatment may be very challenging for your child. However, there are ways to work around your child's sensitivities without sacrificing a beautiful and straight smile. Here are some tips to help you:

1. Consider waiting

Many kids are getting braces at younger and younger ages, but if your child is especially sensitive to having things in his or her mouth, it may be better to wait until he or she is more mature and better able to handle that feeling.

In some cases, braces may even lead to increased pockets of decay for someone with sensory issues. For example, if your child refuses to brush or floss, bacteria can build up behind the braces and cause cavities -- although the risk of oral decay is always present, it can be heightened with braces.

Talk openly with your orthodontist about your concerns, your child's issues and how those interplay with the recommended orthodontia treatment.

2. Toiler the treatment to your child's needs

If possible, consider tailoring the orthodontic treatment to work around your child's special needs. For example, instead of giving your child a mouth full of braces, only straighten the front few teeth with eight braces, or instead of using braces, use a removable retainer. Ultimately, you need to figure out what is going to work best with your child's needs.

3. Choose an orthodontist who is willing to work slowly with your child

If and when you opt to go forward with your child's orthodontic care, look for an orthodontist who is willing to be patient with your child. For example, if a child with sensory issues knows what to expect, it can help to reduce their anxiety.

Your orthodontist should let your child see the tools he or she is going to use, and before these tools are placed in your child's mouth, he or she should be allowed to touch them with his or her hand.

Other techniques that may make your child's time in the chair more tolerable include soothing music, aromatherapy, weighted blankets or medication.

4. Arm your child with lots of wax

The feeling of braces against your mouth can be annoying for anyone, but it can be practically intolerable for someone with sensory issues. So that your child doesn't have to deal with the scratching and possible discomfort of braces, make sure to arm him or her with lots of wax. Your child simply has to place the wax on his or her braces to make them feel softer against his or her mouth.

Contact a company such as About Face Orthodontics to learn more.

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