When is the Right Time for Braces?
Are you noticing gaps between your children’s teeth? Or perhaps over-crowding of teeth? Does everyone need braces?
These are things Dr. Bhaumik and Dr. John and the team at Stonebrook Pediatric Dentistry look for at your dental check-ups, but one of the most common questions we get is “what is the best age for my child to get braces?”
The Recommended Age
This is actually not a straight forward answer, as every child is unique! At every appointment, Dr. Bhaumik and Dr. John will exam and prepare families for possible orthodontic intervention. There are now multiple options for children beginning at age 7 (also called Phase 1 Ortho). The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends scheduling your child’s first orthodontist appointment by age seven or at the first visible sign of malloclusion. Dr. Bhaumik and Dr. John refers to many board certified orthodontists in the Frisco area and is happy to provide references at your child’s next appointment!
How to Help Your Child Adjust to Braces
Visit the Orthodontist Early
It is best to go at the first signs or as soon as Dr. Bhaumik and Dr. John recommends, as this could save your child time and you money in the long haul.If your child has difficulty biting or chewing, speech issues or a mouth-breathing tendency, they might have an abnormal tooth alignment, and will require a consultation with the orthodontist.
Get them Excited
While some kids come in begging us if it’s time for braces, others are fearful of having an appliance in their mouth, and that is completely normal! You can get your child excited by game planning the bands colors together. Make the day that they get their braces put on a fun one by having the favorite soft snacks ready, or taking them to get ice cream after the appointment.
Prepare For Any Mouth Pain
It is no secret that having an appliance put on will result in a sore mouth for a few days. Get ahead of the pain by stocking up on over the counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax to prevent gum and cheek irritation.
Drop your braces questions in the comments below, we look forward to seeing your at your next appointment!
