Lee Orthodontics

How To Prepare a Child for Braces

Posted on December 23, 2020

orthodontist

Many parents are surprised to learn that the best time to make a child’s first appointment with the orthodontist is when they are around the age of seven. Preparing your child for their first orthodontist appointment can help to make the appointment to go smoothly.

Orthodontists recommend early intervention because it helps get the best results. You can help reduce the fear for your child by getting them prepared for their orthodontics appointment.

Let Them Know What to Expect

Before your appointment you will want to prepare your child for what will happen at the orthodontist. One of the biggest fear factors when it comes to kids and orthodontics is the unknown. No one, regardless of age, likes to walk into a situation where they do not know what to expect.

While family orthodontics are well equipped to help ease your child’s fears, having discussions about what to expect before the appointment date will ensure that they feel more at ease. Here are some ways you can help your child to better understand orthodontics:

  • If you or their other parent wore braces, share that history with them. If you have pictures available of your braces-wearing-days, show them. Sometimes sharing your experience wearing braces will help ease their comfort level. Of course, keep it positive.
  • Look for videos online that explain the orthodontic process. If you can find videos of kids their age sharing their story, even better, but make sure it is all positive information.
  • Discuss the process with your child. The who, what, where, and how of the visit can be shared to help define what they can expect out of the experience.

Exposing them to other people that have had braces or that are currently wearing braces can help prepare them for the orthodontist. Explaining that the orthodontist is a dentist that specializes in making smiles straight will help ease some fears about what they can expect.

The best way to prepare your child for the orthodontist is to spend plenty of time talking about the process. There will likely be x-rays and a full exam at the first appointment. Explain to your child why they need braces and what results they can expect.

Choosing an orthodontist that works with children regularly will also help make the appointment easier for your child. Partnering with the right orthodontist will make the transition to becoming a braces-wearer a lot easier.