You may want your child to have a beautiful smile that is easy to maintain. But it’s also important to realize that a good smile is a powerful asset, not just for your kid’s self-esteem but for their overall health and future endeavors.
A beautiful, healthy-looking smile, for example, makes all the difference in a job interview and an important first date. By encouraging your kid to get checked by a dental professional, you’re setting them up for life.
When Is the Best Time to See an Orthodontist?
You can see an orthodontist as soon as you or your child feels a need for treatment, as there is no “one-size-fits-all” rule. Some parents choose to wait until their child has lost all their baby teeth, but others consult dental professionals early on to prevent potential problems from happening.
Many dental professionals suggest visiting an orthodontist with your child as early as they’re 7–10 years old. That’s because around this period, they will likely have some of their adult teeth already. Early detection of jaw misalignment, overbites, underbites, and other dental issues will make it easier for orthodontists to treat your kid.
In adolescence, the teeth will often encounter problems straight away, such as unevenness and irregularity, that can be fixed easily. But it may be more difficult for your teen to adapt to many changes and braces than a younger child.
Ensure to consult your orthodontist for a recommendation about when your teen should start treatment and what type of treatment will be best for your child.
How Can I Help My Child Prepare for Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can vary from a few months to several years, depending on the complexity of your child’s problem and their age.
It’s essential to give your child a reason to want to see an orthodontist, so it’s important to take the time to talk with your child to discuss what the best treatment may be. You could encourage them by saying it’s important for their health, their appearance, and their daily life.
Don’t worry if the first orthodontic treatment doesn’t solve all of the issues because it is common to need more than one session to achieve the best results.
You’ll need to communicate with your child’s orthodontist about what they should expect with each type of treatment so that they return to their orthodontist when they need to.
Because orthodontics is a very personal process, it’s crucial that your child feels comfortable with their orthodontist and can talk to their orthodontist about any issues they may be having.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment is necessary to treat various problems with your teeth’s alignment. It can vary from a few months to several years, depending on the age and complexity of your case.
Orthodontic treatment can be a great way to make your child feel more confident and improve their self-esteem, so it’s certainly worth looking into. However, there is no need to rush things, and it’s essential to make sure your child is mentally ready for the process before starting treatment.
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for your teen and looking for an excellent orthodontist in Manassas, VA, Liberia Dental Care is here to provide ideal dental solutions to patients of all ages. Contact our office today to learn more about what options are available.