Kids see braces in all kinds of ways. Some can’t wait to pick colors, while others picture a long list of “don’ts.” Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson of LaFerla Wilson Orthodontics help families across Joplin and Pittsburg flip that script by keeping treatment fun, rewarding, and full of encouragement. The secret is turning braces into something kids can feel proud of instead of something to worry about. Next, let’s start with the first step: making that very first visit one they’ll actually look forward to.
Make the First Visit Feel Special
That first orthodontic visit can set the tone for the entire treatment, so why not make it something your child remembers for the right reasons?
Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson create a friendly, upbeat atmosphere that turns introductions into genuine excitement. Parents can make the day feel even bigger with a few small touches, like planning a post-appointment stop at Andy’s Frozen Custard in Joplin to celebrate this new chapter. Framing the visit as a milestone instead of a chore helps kids walk in with confidence and curiosity.
Once the first appointment feels like a win, the next step is getting kids involved in their own care.
Let Kids Get Involved in Their Own Care
Kids are more likely to stay motivated when they feel part of the process instead of just sitting in the chair. Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson help patients take an active role in their treatment by showing them how simple choices and good habits make a real difference.
A few ways to get kids involved include:
- Letting them pick their elastic colors, like matching bands to Joplin Eagles red or Pittsburg Purple Dragons purple adds a fun, personal touch.
- Tracking aligner wear or brushing streaks with stickers, calendars, or apps.
- Letting them set small goals and celebrating milestones as a family.
When kids feel ownership of their care, they become partners in the process and that’s when real enthusiasm takes off. Next, let’s explore how adding fun rewards can keep that excitement going strong.
Use Rewards to Keep Things Fun
Braces don’t have to feel like hard work, because a few small rewards can turn progress into something kids look forward to. Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson love seeing their Joplin and Pittsburg patients light up when they hit a milestone or master a new skill, and parents can build on that energy at home.
Simple rewards that make a big impact:
- Plan a family outing after a great checkup, like mini golf or ice cream.
- Offer a new book, game, or small prize after consistent brushing or aligner wear.
- Create a “brace tracker” chart where stickers or points add up to something fun at the end of the month.
When progress feels rewarding, motivation stays strong. Next, let’s look at how the right atmosphere can make every orthodontic visit something kids genuinely look forward to.
Create a Comfortable, Positive Environment
The setting where kids receive treatment plays a big role in how they feel about braces. A welcoming, upbeat environment can turn nerves into excitement, and that starts the moment they walk in the door. Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson have shaped LaFerla Wilson Orthodontics into a space where kids feel relaxed, engaged, and even entertained during their visits.
A Place That Feels Friendly
The office atmosphere is full of smiles and laughter, with games, movies, and a team that loves helping kids feel at ease. It’s the kind of place where appointments fly by because kids are genuinely enjoying themselves.
A Space That Feels Familiar
Comfort comes from knowing what to expect and feeling welcomed every time. That sense of familiarity helps kids approach each visit with confidence instead of hesitation.
When appointments feel comfortable and fun, braces stop feeling like a big deal and start becoming something kids can embrace with confidence. Next, let’s look at how parents can help keep that positive energy going at home.
Keep the Conversation Positive at Home
The words parents use about braces can shape how kids feel about the entire process. Keeping the conversation upbeat helps make orthodontic care something to be proud of instead of something to “get through.” Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson often remind families that positivity is contagious, especially around the dinner table.
Focus on Progress, Not Restrictions
Instead of listing all the foods to avoid, talk about the milestones your child is reaching or how great they’re doing at brushing and caring for their braces. Compliments go a long way in helping kids stay confident.
Turn Checkups Into Traditions
Add something fun after each appointment, like smoothies at Tropical Smoothie Café in Joplin. These small routines give kids something to look forward to and turn orthodontic visits into part of family life.
A little encouragement at home keeps energy high between appointments. Next, let’s look at how orthodontic treatment can help kids grow in confidence and discover just how capable they really are.
Growth You Can See
Somewhere between their first appointment and their last adjustment, something shifts and kids start standing a little taller. Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson see it every week at their Joplin and Pittsburg offices as young patients take charge of their routines and recognize their own progress.
Following directions, sticking with appointments, and seeing steady change teaches patience and builds a quiet kind of confidence that shows up in the classroom, on the field, and in every grin. Those lessons last long after treatment ends, leaving kids with proof that they can handle anything that comes their way.
Braces, But Make It Fun!
When braces come with positivity and encouragement, the whole experience feels lighter for kids and parents alike. Dr. LaFerla and Dr. Wilson help Joplin, MO, and Pittsburg, KS, families turn every visit into progress worth celebrating. From that first appointment to the big reveal, the focus stays on confidence, growth, and fun along the way. Schedule your free consultation with LaFerla Wilson Orthodontics and see how smiles start with excitement, not nerves!