If your child has been recommended for early orthodontics, and it’s not something they’ve experienced before, it can be daunting for them and you. It’s important to remember that by having braces from an early age, more complex dental issues in adulthood can be prevented, so it is an incredibly worthwhile investment. To help prepare you and your child, so you know what to expect and the benefits that can be achieved from undergoing treatment, here are some top tips to get you ready for early orthodontics. 

When your child finds out they have an appointment at the dentist or orthodontist, they may feel worried or anxious about attending. Perhaps they have heard older children talking about wearing braces and are nervous about having an appliance in their mouth or being in pain. It is normal for them to worry about things they haven’t yet experienced but this is a great opportunity for you, as a parent, to reassure your child. Having a little knowledge about what they can expect will put you in a good position to comfort and support your child. 

Why your child might need braces 

The first thing to reassure your child about is that there is nothing wrong with them. The reason they need an appointment to find out about braces is because they have wonky or gappy teeth and fixing them now will mean they will have a smile they can be confident in and which doesn’t cause them problems into adulthood.  

Different types of braces used in children’s orthodontics 

It can then be helpful if you explain to your child the different types of braces used in children’s orthodontics. Of course, depending on the nature of their dental issues, certain types of braces may not be suitable, but it may help them to know what to expect. The main option will most likely be a removable brace with a wire attached that can be easily worn and removed and is designed to correct minor orthodontic issues. Another possibility may be removable aligners, made of clear plastic and changed every week to gradually move the teeth into a more desirable position. If you can find images on the website of your dental or orthodontic practice you can show your child, to prove to them there is nothing to fear. 

What to expect from the first appointment 

Another thing to reassure your child about is that the first appointment is just a consultation – a chance to chat through the options, examine the child’s mouth to see the extent of the issues and maybe do some imaging to help the dentist or orthodontist draw up a treatment plan.  

Managing your child’s fear of pain 

Possibly the biggest fear your child will have about braces is whether they are going to hurt. The truth is that there may be some discomfort with all types of children’s braces but this can be easily managed with over the counter children’s painkillers and soft, soothing foods. The most pain tends to come from fixed braces when they are first applied or each time they get tightened, however most cases of early orthodontics use removable appliances so they shouldn’t have to worry about this. 

Benefits of early orthodontics 

Your child’s dentist is perfectly placed to spot any issues with their mouth, teeth and jaws from an early age, which is why it’s so important that they attend regular dental check ups. Early detection of issues can prevent future problems and help your child get a smile they will be proud of, particularly through those self-conscious teenage years. 

Some of the key benefits of early orthodontics include: 

• Improved confidence and self esteem 
• Resolution of speech difficulties caused by misaligned teeth and jaws 
• Better oral health and reduced risk of tooth decay, as straighter teeth are easier to brush 

Whatever the age of your child and regardless of the severity of the dental issues they are facing, having as much information as possible before they start any treatment can help you to make a decision about the best course of action. It can also ensure you and your child are prepared to do what it takes to ensure treatment is successful, resulting in a smile they can be confident in showing off. 

Kids Dental is a child-only dental unit located in Mitcham, Surrey and offering a range of early orthodontics treatments. Follow the link for more information on their treatments.