If you think you’re scared by a trip to the orthodontist, think what your kids must be going through. If you’ve been looking for a way to break the news to them, and calm your own nerves at the same time, then keep reading.
When You Should Go To The Orthodontist
Some parents bring their kids to the orthodontist when their GP or a pediatric dentist tells them that there’s a problem. But, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should go to the orthodontist when they’re 7 for a consult.
This is because kids need orthodontic care for a variety of reasons, many of which aren’t immediately apparent. Thumb sucking, accidents, tooth decay, even genetic problems can cause malocclusions and other oral health issues.
Why Straight Teeth Matter
Having teeth straightened, and other oral problems fixed, is important because it can make dental hygiene easier on the child, makes maintenance easier, makes reduction of wear on tooth surfaces less of a problem, puts less stress on the supportive teeth and bones, as well as the gum tissues, and minimizes the risk of jaw problems that might lead to headaches or other problems.
What Should You Expect?
Normally, your orthodontist will schedule a 45-minute appointment. During this appointment, he will conduct an examination of the mouth with a small, mirrored, tool. He will also take X-rays of the teeth and possibly a mold as well.
After he or she looks over the results of the exam, the doctor will explain them to you and discuss treatment options. At this point, you’ll be given a fee schedule and recommendation for treatment.
You should ask a lot of questions. don’t be afraid to ask about financing options or make it clear that you can’t afford a particular treatment. The dentist should work with you.
Different Options You Might Be Given
On the higher-end of the price scale, your orthodontist might recommend Invisalign. This is an invisible brace that your child wears for straightening teeth. The benefit is that no one will really know that your child is wearing braces. The downside is that these can cost several thousand dollars.
And, they are also only designed for gently or mild malocclusions.
Metal or Ceramic Braces
A more mainstream option many dentists and orthodontists gravitate to is traditional metal or ceramic braces. Places like Rockefeller Center Orthodontics often recommend these as a more affordable treatment option.
Depending on how self-conscious your child is, these may be more appropriate. They are visible, so people will know your child is wearing braces.
One major advantage to these types of braces is that they are more adjustable, and they can correct more moderate to severe malocclusions. In some cases, it’s the only appropriate option because it’s the only one that will truly help your child.
When in doubt, get a second opinion. There’s no shame in asking around and seeing another doctor. Most doctors will be understanding, too. They want your child to have the best care possible.
Isobel O’Donnell is at dentistry school. A grade A student, she enjoys spending parts of her weekend writing, usually focusing on dentistry topics. Her articles have been published on health, parenting and lifestyle focused blogs.
I had braces myself, so I think if my boys ever need braces – and I hope they don’t, I would be somewhat prepared 🙂
If my kids ever need braces, I’ll ask specifically about those aligning trays. Otherwise, I’ll just be open to whatever the doctor advises.
Both of my kids had braces so we are pretty familiar with the orthodontist! It can be intimidating when you don’t know what to expect.
This is a great post. Luckily I never needed braces and my son doesn’t need them.
A great post… Our twins are in the midst of stage one orthodontic care, yes I stage 1 as I learned that many kids now do 2 stages of braces… I was a bit shocked to learn that. Not sure we will do that but will decide in a few years down the road.
I think I took my kids to the orthodontist when they were in middle school. I believe they had their braces off in their first years of high school.
This is great for parents just starting the braces journey with their kids. My Daughter just had her braces taken off and her teeth look amazing.
This is great. I will be making this trip soon for my daughter so this is great to know!
Teeth can do funny things. It’s always a good idea to go before issues arise because the issues may be caught before they do come about!
My oldest just DID NOT want braces when he was in school. Now he’s 28 and has a little gap in the front. He tells me all the time he wishes he would have gotten them and I should have made him. -_- He’s probably right, but I was a young mom. The three following him didn’t get as lucky? as he did for leniency. 😉
This blog post is packed with great information. I recognize how important oral health is. Thanks for the helpful info!
I certainly remember when I went to the Ortho, maybe not my first visit but I do remember wearing braces 4 EVER!! Hopefully, my son will have straight teeth and he won’t have to go!!!
I had no idea as a child how important it was to stay on top of the orthodontist visits. Now as an adult, I will definitely stay on top of my kids’ oral health
Good info. I actually never got an opportunity to get braces and sometimes I wish I did as a teen.
I had braces myself and I remember those appointments with the orthodontist. I hated the nasty stuff that they used to make a mold of your teeth. My orthodontist used stuff that was strawberry flavored so for a long time I could not stand anything that was strawberry flavored!
My daughter is 17 and she is about 6 months in with her orthodontic treatment plan. There is so much you need to know when beginning this journey!