For minor issues, treatment might be finished in less than a year. Complex cases may take a little longer. But braces are not a lifelong commitment. With regular checkups and good home care, most kids and teens finish on time.

Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to brush and floss, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment makes daily care easier and helps protect long-term dental health. So while braces do improve appearance, their main job is to support healthy mouths.

• Gum and sticky candy (like caramel or taffy)
• Hard foods (like popcorn, nuts, or ice)
• Crunchy items (like raw carrots or hard taco shells)

So whether your child is traveling or heading to a big event, there’s no need to worry. Braces won’t cause problems during security checks.

• Ceramic braces: These work like metal braces but are clear or tooth-colored, making them less visible.
• Clear aligners: These are removable trays that straighten teeth without brackets or wires. These may be a good option for older teens or adults with mild alignment needs.

Our orthodontic team will review all available options during your consultation. We’ll help you decide what’s best based on your child’s age, dental needs, and lifestyle.

It’s never too late to straighten your teeth. Whether you’re fixing an old issue or starting fresh, orthodontic treatment can improve your health and confidence. At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we welcome adult patients and offer flexible scheduling options to fit busy routines.

At Palmetto Kids General Dentistry and Orthodontics in Summerville, SC, we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether your child needs a checkup or a full orthodontic plan, our team makes the process easy and friendly. We offer braces for kids, teens, and adults in a fun, relaxed environment.

Common Orthodontic Emergencies and How to Handle Them

Oral Trauma and Accidents

True orthodontic emergencies often involve sudden trauma to the face or mouth that results in bleeding, swelling, or injury to the teeth and braces. These can happen during sports, play, or accidents like falling off a bike or being hit in the mouth with a ball. These injuries may cause bleeding, swelling, or damage to the braces or teeth themselves. If your child has braces, even a small impact can loosen components or cause pain.

What to do:

If your child experiences a serious injury involving heavy bleeding, broken teeth, facial trauma, or swelling, go straight to the emergency room. These symptoms may indicate more than just an orthodontic issue and need immediate medical attention. Once your child has been treated and is stable, contact your pediatric dentist or orthodontist to evaluate any damage to the braces or appliances. If the injury occurs after hours and you are unsure whether it requires an ER visit, call the Palmetto Kids Dentistry emergency line at 843.284.6497 and leave a message. While waiting for care, apply ice to reduce swelling and have your child rinse gently with warm salt water. Avoid touching or trying to reposition any loose teeth or components on your own.

Broken Brackets

A bracket is the small square piece that is glued directly to each tooth. It’s the part of braces that holds the wire in place and helps guide teeth into the right position. Brackets can come loose if a child bites into hard or sticky foods, accidentally bumps their mouth during play, or chews on pens or fingernails.

What to do:

If a bracket comes loose but is still attached to the wire, try to leave it in place. Cover it with orthodontic wax to reduce discomfort. If it falls off completely, store it in a clean container and bring it to the orthodontist. Call the office to let them know what happened and schedule a repair. Try to avoid any foods or habits that might have caused the break.

Poking Wires

The archwire is the thin metal line that runs through all the brackets. We clip off any poking or extra wire at your child’s appointments, but as your child’s teeth shift, the ends of the wire can sometimes start to poke out at the back of the mouth. This might happen as teeth move more quickly than expected.

What to do:

If the wire is poking into your child’s cheek or gums, it can be uncomfortable or even cause a sore. Use a clean eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire flat against the teeth. Another option is to place orthodontic wax over the sharp end to stop it from irritating the mouth. If the wire continues to cause problems, call the orthodontist to see if a visit is needed.

Loose Bands or Appliances

Bands are metal rings that are placed around back molars. Appliances include expanders, spacers, or other devices designed to help with jaw alignment or tooth spacing. These can come loose if your child chews hard foods or receives a bump to the mouth.

What to do:

If a band or appliance is loose but still in the mouth, have your child avoid using that side while chewing. If it falls out, place it in a plastic bag or container and bring it to the next appointment. Don’t try to put it back in yourself. Contact your orthodontist’s office to determine whether it needs to be re-cemented right away.

Lost or Broken Retainers

Retainers are clear or wire devices worn after braces are removed to help keep teeth from shifting back. They are usually removable, which makes them easier to misplace or accidentally damage. It’s common for kids to accidentally throw them away with lunch trays, leave them on the table at a restaurant, or find them chewed up by a curious pet.
Invisalign aligners also fall into this category. These clear trays are worn throughout the day and night and are swapped out every 1-2 weeks. Because each tray is part of a step-by-step process, losing or damaging one can set back progress if not replaced quickly.

What to do:

If your child breaks or loses a retainer or aligner, contact the orthodontist as soon as possible. The longer they go without wearing it, the more likely their teeth are to shift in an unwanted direction. For Invisalign users, it’s especially important to replace the tray or move to the next one (with orthodontist approval) as soon as possible. Remind your child to always place their retainer or aligner in its case when not in use and avoid wrapping it in napkins or setting it down in public places. Keeping a backup case in backpacks or lunchboxes can help.

Soreness After Adjustments

When braces are first placed or adjusted, it’s normal for teeth and gums to feel tender. This discomfort usually starts a few hours after the visit and lasts for a few days. It can make eating or brushing feel uncomfortable.

What to do:

Encourage your child to eat soft foods like soup, pasta, or yogurt on adjustment days. Offer cold drinks or ice water to soothe sore areas. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also help. Remind your child that this is a sign their braces are working and the discomfort is only temporary.

If you’re unsure how to handle an orthodontic issue, give us a call. We’re happy to talk you through the next steps.  

When to Call Your Orthodontist Immediately

• You see bleeding or swollen areas caused by an appliance.
• Your child experiences severe pain that doesn’t go away.
• There is injury to the mouth from a fall or hit during sports.
• Any part of the appliance is swallowed or inhaled.

For after-hours concerns, Palmetto Kids General Dentistry and Orthodontics offers an emergency line at 843.284.6497. Leave a message, and Dr. Kimberly will return your call. For serious injuries, call 911 or go to the Emergency Room.

Tips for Preventing Orthodontic Problems

Foods to Avoid

Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can break brackets and bend wires. Remind your child to skip:

• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Ice
• Hard candies
• Gum and caramel
• Chewy bagels or pizza crust

Offer soft snacks instead: string cheese, applesauce, cut-up fruits, smoothies, and cooked veggies.

Home Care Routine

• Keeping braces clean prevents gum disease and cavities. Encourage your child to:
• Brush twice daily for two minutes.
• Use a floss threader or water flosser daily.
• Rinse with fluoride mouthwash if recommended.

Wearing and Caring for Retainers

• Always store retainers in their case when not in use.
• Keep them away from pets.
• Rinse and brush retainers gently each day with cool water.

Wearing Mouthguards for Sports

Sports injuries are a common cause of orthodontic emergencies. A custom-fit mouthguard protects teeth and braces during play. Palmetto Kids Dentistry offers mouthguards made specifically for your child’s smile. You can also learn more about sports and braces here.

Is your child active in sports? Ask us about custom mouthguards to protect their smile.

Helping Your Child Stay Calm

Orthodontic issues are normal, and it helps to remind your child that they’re not alone. Reassure them that these small bumps can be part of the path to a beautiful smile. Let them help with simple fixes like placing wax or keeping track of a lost item. A calm parent helps create a calm child.

Orthodontic emergencies can be inconvenient but are rarely serious. The key is knowing what to do, when to call your orthodontist, and how to avoid issues in the future. At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we’re here to support families every step of the way. Have a question or concern? Call us at 843.284.6497. We’re happy to help keep your child’s smile on track.

A child’s smile grows and changes rapidly in the first two decades of life. Knowing what to expect at each stage of dental development helps parents support healthy habits and catch concerns early. From the first baby tooth to teenage orthodontics, understanding dental milestones can make a big difference in lifelong oral health.

At Palmetto Kids General Dentistry and Orthodontics, we believe that every child deserves to grow up with a confident, healthy smile. Here’s a look into what happens in your child’s mouth from birth through the teen years, and how you can help at every step.

Infant Stage: Birth to 12 Months

Oral health begins long before a child can hold a toothbrush. During the first year of life, important dental foundations are already being formed. Most babies will get their first tooth around six months old, typically the lower front teeth.

Even before teeth appear, parents can begin daily oral care by gently wiping the baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth. Once a tooth erupts, it’s time to switch to a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. These early routines help prevent tooth decay and build comfort with daily care.

The American Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth coming in. This visit allows the dentist to check early development, answer feeding questions, and catch any concerns such as tongue- or lip-tie. It also gives parents peace of mind and helps babies become familiar with the dental setting from the very beginning.

To support healthy habits from day one, Palmetto Kids Dentistry offers free dental checkups for children under age two. Starting early makes it easier to build lifelong comfort with dental care and ensures your child’s smile gets off to a strong, healthy start.

Schedule your baby’s free first visit with us today. Call 843.284.6497

Toddler Years: Ages 1 to 3

By age three, most toddlers have all 20 of their primary teeth. During this time, brushing twice a day becomes a daily habit. Children will still rely on a parent for help, as they do not yet have the coordination to brush thoroughly on their own.

Regular dental visits every six months help track growth and spot any concerns early. This is also a time when parents may start hearing about tongue-tie or lip-tie, which can impact speech and eating. These conditions are often simple to treat with laser dentistry right in the dentist’s office.

At this stage, the focus is on creating a positive experience that builds confidence. Parents are encouraged to stay with their child throughout the visit, often holding them in their lap during the exam. Creating fun and calm early impressions helps set the stage for future visits.

Early School Years: Ages 6 to 8

As children grow into their preschool years, they begin to take a more active role in their daily routines including brushing their teeth. While most kids this age enjoy the independence, they still need help to brush and floss effectively. Parents should guide brushing twice a day and begin flossing once teeth are touching side by side.

Preschool Age: Ages 3 to 5

This stage is also when children start to feel more comfortable with regular dental visits. Routine checkups every six months help build familiarity and confidence, making each appointment easier than the last. The dentist will monitor the health of baby teeth, check for signs of decay, and may introduce the idea of preventive care like dental sealants. These protective coatings are often applied to molars to help prevent cavities before they start.

Preschoolers respond best to positive experiences, so keeping visits light, fun, and supportive is key. At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we encourage kids to pick a show to watch during their visit, bring a favorite stuffed animal, or sit with a parent if that makes them feel more at ease. These small comforts help create lasting trust and set the tone for stress-free visits in the years to come.

A major milestone happens around age six when children begin to lose baby teeth and grow their first permanent molars. These new molars come in behind the baby teeth without replacing any of them and are especially vulnerable to decay. Sealants and fluoride treatments become more important during this time.

This is also when kids start brushing and flossing with more independence. Parents should continue to monitor for thoroughness. Orthodontic screenings are recommended by age seven to check for crowding, crossbites, or other jaw issues. Early orthodontic evaluations can make later treatment easier and more effective.

Wondering if your child needs orthodontic screening? Our in-office orthodontist can help. Call 843.284.6497 for an evaluation.

Tween Stage: Ages 9 to 12

As more permanent teeth come in, children go through what is called a mixed dentition phase. They may have a mix of baby and adult teeth for several years. This phase can affect bite alignment and spacing. Many children begin orthodontic treatment during this time if needed.

Increased physical activity during these years also means a higher risk of dental injuries. Kids who play sports should wear custom-fitted mouthguards to protect their teeth. At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we create comfortable, personalized guards to help prevent accidents on the field or court. As your kiddo starts his or her next sports season, ask about a custom mouth guard at your next appointment.

Teen Years: Ages 13 to 18

By early adolescence, most teens have their full set of permanent teeth, with the exception of the wisdom teeth. This is a common time for braces or clear aligners, as orthodontic issues become more noticeable and necessary to address. By the end of this stage, most orthodontic work is complete and teens are maintaining their new smiles.

Teenagers face new dental challenges as diet, hygiene habits, and busy schedules shift. Snacking, soda, and skipped brushing routines can lead to decay and gum problems. It’s also important to talk openly about the risks of vaping, smoking, or oral piercings, as these choices affect oral health.

Teens should continue visiting the dentist every six months for cleanings and exams. Dr. Kimberly will also monitor incoming wisdom teeth for impaction or crowding during routine exams and with the help of X-rays.

What Parents Should Watch For

Throughout childhood, there are signs that may indicate a developing dental issue. Persistent bad breath, frequent toothaches, teeth grinding during sleep, or delayed eruption of teeth may point to underlying problems. Difficulty chewing, speech delays, or jaw alignment issues, such as the lower jaw shifting to one side, are also worth noting. While these signs can sometimes be part of normal development, they can also signal a need for evaluation.

If any of these concerns come up, the best first step is to schedule a dental appointment for a closer look. Some issues, like cavities or early gum problems, may require simple treatments such as fillings, fluoride therapy, or improved home care routines. Others, like grinding (bruxism), may benefit from monitoring or the use of a night guard. Developmental concerns like delayed tooth eruption or jaw misalignment can often be addressed early with guidance from a pediatric dentist or an orthodontic consultation. In cases involving speech or feeding difficulties tied to tongue- or lip-tie, laser treatment may be recommended.

Catching and addressing these issues early helps prevent more complex problems later. We work with families to identify the cause, explain next steps clearly, and make sure your child feels comfortable and supported through any treatment process.

Growing Healthy Smiles, One Milestone at a Time

Every child develops at their own pace, but understanding general dental milestones helps families stay on track. We guide parents through each phase with care, patience, and a lot of smiles. Whether it’s a first tooth, first cleaning, or first set of braces, we are here to make every step a positive one.

For questions or to schedule your child’s next visit, call us at 843.284.6497. We accept most major insurances and offer flexible scheduling options to fit your family’s needs.

Game on! Just because your child is rocking braces doesn’t mean they have to sit out of the season. At Palmetto Kids General Dentistry and Orthodontics, we believe that active kids should feel confident on the field and about their smile. Whether they’re sprinting across a soccer field, diving for a volleyball, or flipping through gymnastics, there are safe ways to stay in the game while protecting their orthodontic treatment, and your investment in their beautiful smile.

Here’s everything you need to know to keep your child’s smile safe, secure, and shining during sports season.

Need to schedule your next orthodontics or cleaning appointment?

Give us a call 843.284.6497.

Can You Play Sports with Braces?

Yes! And they should! Braces shouldn’t stop kids or teens from doing the things they love. In fact, many professional athletes have gone through orthodontic treatment in their youth.

With some smart habits, your child can play confidently and safely in just about any sport. The key is taking the right precautions to prevent injury because the truth is, there is a higher chance of cuts and bruises while wearing braces.

With some smart habits, your child can play confidently and safely in just about any sport. The key is taking the right precautions to prevent injury because the truth is, there is a higher chance of cuts and bruises while wearing braces.

Why Are Braces More Vulnerable During Sports?

While braces are hard at work moving teeth into place, the added hardware inside the mouth – brackets, wires, and bands – do take up extra space making the mouth more susceptible to injury during sports, especially in contact activities. A bump, fall, or accidental elbow during a game can lead to more than just a bruised ego.

The metal of traditional braces sit along the surface of the teeth and against the soft tissues of the lips and cheeks, so even minor impacts can cause cuts, scrapes, or irritation. In more serious cases, a hit to the mouth might result in a bent wire or a broken bracket, which can delay treatment and require an urgent visit to the orthodontist. Beyond that, a strong impact can potentially damage the teeth and gums.

Additionally, teeth themselves are more sensitive and susceptible to moving during orthodontic treatment because they are already in the process of being repositioned.

How Do I Protect My Braces While Playing Sports?

Time for some good news! All of these risks can be dramatically reduced with one simple but powerful piece of protective equipment: a well-fitted mouthguard. It acts as a cushion, shielding both the braces and the soft tissues from harm, so kids can stay active and confident while their smile continues to shine.

At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we recommend and offer custom orthodontic mouthguards because they’re specially designed to:

• Fit comfortably over braces

• Stay in place during movement

• Specifically fit to your child’s teeth

Why Store-Bought Isn’t Enough

Generic or “boil-and-bite” mouthguards often don’t fit well over braces and can become uncomfortable, especially as the teeth move. They may even damage orthodontic appliances if they press too tightly.

We offer custom-fit mouthguards at our office, made just for kids and teens undergoing treatment. Ask us during your next visit!

What Happens if You Get Hit in the Mouth with Braces?

Accidents happen. If your child takes a hit to the face while wearing braces:

• Stay calm and rinse the mouth with warm water.
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Check for any bleeding or signs of damage (loose brackets, wires poking out).
• Call us right away to assess the damage and get it fixed quickly.

After-Hours Emergency?

If it’s a serious injury (broken tooth, excessive bleeding), go directly to the ER. Otherwise, call our emergency line at 843.284.6497 and leave a message. Dr. Kimberly will return your call with next steps.

Are Mouthguards Required for Youth Sports?

Yes, in many cases. Sports like football, basketball, wrestling, hockey, and even skateboarding or gymnastics carry a high risk of mouth injury. Many leagues require mouthguards for safety reasons.

Even if your child’s sport doesn’t require one, we highly recommend it. Injuries can happen anytime and the cost of repairing damaged braces (or teeth!) is far higher than investing in prevention.

How to Care for a Mouthguard with Braces

Keeping your mouthguard clean is just as important as wearing it. Here’s how:

• Rinse it after every use with cold water.

• Clean it weekly with a mild soap or a dental cleaning tablet.

• Store it in a breathable container — avoid hot cars or gym bags where it can warp.

• Replace it if it starts to feel uncomfortable, shows signs of wear, or no longer fits snugly.

Tips for Parents: Keeping Smiles Safe

When it comes to protecting your child’s smile during sports season, a little preparation can go a long way, and parents play a huge role in building healthy habits. One of the easiest ways to help is by making sure your child never heads to practice or a game without their mouthguard. Just like packing their water bottle or tying their cleats, wearing a mouthguard should become part of the routine.

It’s also a great idea to keep a backup mouthguard in their sports bag or backpack. Kids are busy, bags get shuffled, and gear can get left behind. Having a spare on hand means they won’t have to sit out or risk playing unprotected.

Just as important as the gear itself is the “why” behind it. Take a few minutes (perhaps on more than one occasion) to explain to your child that wearing a mouthguard isn’t just about protecting braces, it’s about protecting their smile for the long haul. Understanding the reason behind the rule helps kids take ownership of their health and safety.

And if your child is a little hesitant about wearing a mouthguard, try adding a bit of fun and personalization. Let them choose a bold color or decorate their storage case with stickers. When kids feel like something is theirs, they’re more likely to actually use it.

Keep That Smile Game-Ready!

Whether it’s your child’s first sports season with braces or they’ve been on the team for years, our team is here to help make sure their treatment stays on track, no matter how fast they’re running or how high they’re jumping.

If your child plays sports and wears braces, don’t wait for an injury to happen. Let’s keep that smile protected and treatment on schedule. At Palmetto Kids General Dentistry and Orthodontics, we’re happy to provide custom mouthguards, fast support in emergencies, and guidance at every step.

Call us at 843.284.6497 to ask about mouthguards or book your next orthodontic visit.

Serving Summerville and surrounding areas.
Hablamos Español

As parents, we all want our kids to have bright, healthy smiles! But let’s be honest—getting little ones excited about brushing and flossing can sometimes feel like a battle. The good news? With a few creative tricks, you can turn oral care into a fun and engaging part of their daily routine. Here are some of our favorite ways to make brushing and flossing a breeze for kids as they create those healthy habits!

Brushing: Make It a Fun Experience!

1. Use a Tooth Timer

One of the simplest ways to help kids brush for two full minutes is to use a tooth timer. At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we give these out to new patients to make brushing more interactive. These special hourglasses feature fun tooth designs and let kids watch the sand fall while brushing. A simple timer on your phone or the microwave can work too. It’s a great visual tool to help little ones understand how long they should brush—and it makes the time fly by!

2. Sing a Song While Brushing

If your child loves music, this trick is perfect! Playing or singing a song that lasts about two minutes can make brushing feel more like a fun activity instead of a chore. Some great options include:

• “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” (sung twice)
• “ABC Song” (sung twice)
• The chorus of their favorite song repeated a few times

Encourage them to sing along in their head (at normal speed) or even dance while brushing. The more fun they have, the more likely they are to stick to the routine!

3. Try an Electric Toothbrush with a Companion App

For kids who love gadgets and games, an electric toothbrush with a companion app can be a game-changer! Both Oral-B and Sonicare for Kids have apps that sync with their toothbrushes to make brushing time exciting. These apps offer:

• Fun characters that cheer them on
• Rewards for brushing properly
• Built-in timers to ensure a full two-minute brushing session

Not only do these apps keep kids engaged, but they also encourage better brushing habits by showing areas they may have missed!

4. Brush a Toy’s Teeth First

Let your child “practice” brushing by having them brush the teeth of their favorite stuffed animal or doll. Practicing on a favorite stuffed animal or doll first can make brushing feel like a fun and familiar routine, helping kids feel more comfortable when it’s their turn.

5. Turn Brushing Into a Story

Create a fun story where your child is a superhero fighting off “sugar bugs” by brushing and flossing. This imaginative approach can make the routine feel like an exciting mission rather than a chore!

6. Use a Reward System

Set up a brushing chart and give your child a sticker each time they complete their morning and evening brushing routine. Once they collect a certain number of stickers, they can earn a small reward, like a new book or an extra bedtime story.

7. Let Kids Pick Their Own Toothpaste

Allowing kids to choose their favorite flavor of toothpaste (like bubblegum or strawberry) or a toothbrush featuring their favorite character can make brushing feel more exciting and personal.

Flossing: Find What Works Best

Let’s be real—flossing isn’t as naturally fun as brushing. But it’s just as important! Thankfully, there are different flossing tools that can make it easier and more enjoyable for kids.

8. Different Tools for Different Kids

Every child is different, so finding the right flossing tool can make a huge difference. Here are some great options:

• String floss – The classic choice, great for older kids who have the dexterity to use it properly.
• Tooth pickers (floss picks) – These are fantastic for younger kids who struggle with traditional floss. The handles make them easier to hold and maneuver.
• Water flossers – A fun and gentle option, especially for kids who resist string floss. Water flossers use a stream of water to clean between teeth.
• Water picks – Ideal for kids with braces or sensitive gums. They offer a gentle and effective way to remove plaque and food particles.

9. Make It a Fun Challenge

Flossing may not be the most exciting part of oral care, but you can turn it into a fun challenge! Here are some ideas:

• Flossing Race – Can they floss between all their teeth before a short song ends?
• Sticker Chart – Make sure flossing is a part of the reward system mentioned above so when they both brush AND floss, they earn a sticker, leading to a small prize.
• Storytime Flossing – Include flossing in the “brushtime storytime” where flossing is a part of their mission to chase those sticky “sugar bugs” away!

Final Tips for Parents

Lead by Example 

Little kids love to mimic what they see, but ultimately all children learn by example. If they watch you brushing and flossing every day, they’ll want to join in and will adopt your good habits as their own.

Make It a Family Activity

Brushing together can be a great bonding moment. Try making it a morning or bedtime routine where the whole family brushes and flosses together.

Give Lots of Praise

Positive reinforcement goes a long way! Celebrate their efforts with high-fives, stickers, or even a special song when they finish brushing and flossing.

Let Them Choose

Allowing kids to pick out their own toothbrush (especially one with their favorite color or character) or flavored floss can make oral care feel more personal and fun.

At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we’re always happy to help parents find the best strategies for their little ones. If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to ask during your child’s next visit!

Here’s to happy, healthy smiles! 🦷✨