Have you noticed that your child has crooked teeth? Have you been thinking about getting them braces and starting them on a journey to a healthy smile? If so, don’t be too intimidated by this step. There are lots of good things to keep in mind when your children need braces and as you are preparing to help them.
Help Them Understand
Some kids dread getting braces because they think the braces will be overly painful. Other kids think that braces look awkward and dorky and don’t want to go through the discomfort of having a shiny, metal smile. One of the best things that you can do to help your children prepare for braces is to help them understand why braces are necessary. When you take them to the orthodontist, have your orthodontist or dental assistant show your child the x-rays of their teeth so they can see the crooked teeth that need to be aligned. Explain to them how having straight teeth will help prevent cavities and gum infections. Most of all, remind them that having a straight, healthy, comfortable smile will help them to feel happy and confident.
Get Them the Best Treatment
Before you settle on an orthodontist, remember that your children will receive braces adjustments and treatments for a few years, so make sure that you’re going to the best orthodontist you can find. You want to make sure the orthodontist uses the latest technology when treating patients. For example, there are braces with updated technology that can help your kids’ teeth to straighten much faster than braces did ten, or even five years ago. Ask your orthodontist about the different options available to figure out what will work best for your child.
Spot the Signs
Maybe you’re still wondering if braces are even necessary at this point. There are a few signs that you can spot that will tell you when your child needs braces. If your child has an irregular loss of baby teeth, has noticeably crooked or gapped teeth, has difficulty chewing, has an overbite or underbite, has a painful or popping jaw, or overcrowded, protruding teeth, your child will definitely benefit from having an orthodontist visit. Usually, kids start braces in their early teens, but your child might have special circumstances that may require braces earlier or later. Make sure to consult with your orthodontist to find the right time for your child to start braces.
If you start noticing that your child might be needing to visit the orthodontist, don’t get overly worried or anxious. Taking care of your children’s health is one of the best things you can do to help them, and that includes their oral health. Remember that the process of having braces will help grow your child’s confidence as they develop a healthy, beautiful smile.
Read this next: 6 Signs Your Child is Lacking Confidence
