Are you trying to figure out how to have great teeth and what it’s like going to the orthodontist for kids? Read this article to learn more.
Is it time to bring your kids to the dentist for their braces? Around 4.5 million Americans wear braces. About 80% of them are 6-18 years old. If you’re also planning to take your kid to their first orthodontist appointment, you’re probably wondering what to expect.
What to Expect When Going to the Orthodontist for Kids
Don’t worry. We’re here to help you! Keep on reading to find out what happens when visiting an orthodontist for kids.
The First Visit
When you walk into the office, the first thing your child’s orthodontist will ask is the purpose of your visit. They’ll sit your child down on the dentist’s chair and examine their teeth. After a physical examination by the orthodontist, they might ask to take x-rays to have a further look.
They see if any new teeth still need to come out and examine their positions. This is all to determine if it’s the right time to correct their teeth. You will need to wait till all their permanent teeth come out first.
They’ll also be asking questions about your kid’s brushing habits and if they have any problems or pain with chewing and swallowing. If your orthodontist determines that they need treatment, they’ll make a mold for your child’s teeth. It’ll be how they find the right proportions and individual approach.
The orthodontist will then talk about recommended appliances. These are usually braces, but could also be retainers or expanders. Finance and your method for payment will also get discussed, along with insurance.
What Happens Next
Once you agree with any necessary treatments, the next appointment will be about applying them. They’ll start by cleaning your child’s teeth then putting in the braces. This could take up to two hours, depending on if any adjustments need attention.
It’s easy for your child to get food stuck in the braces and neglect their care. Your orthodontist will explain how to tend to and maintain the appliance, as well as the importance of their oral hygiene.
For however long your child will have to wear the braces, they’ll need to come in every two months. This is to get any necessary adjustments like tightening, or in some cases adding new bands.
Your child will also have to come into the office whenever a bracket comes out. If the metal wire moves and starts pricking the inside of their mouths, this will also require a trip to the orthodontist.
If your child happens to have braces during the COVID-19 quarantine, it will be harder for them to take care of their braces. Read more now to learn how to maintain braces during the pandemic.
Now You Know What to Expect When You Visit an Orthodontist for Kids
We hope that you have a better understanding of what to expect in your child’s first orthodontist appointment. The experience will always be different from patient to patient. But hopefully, this will help you explain what to prepare for when going to an orthodontist for kids.
