When you think of first impressions, many would say that a smile is the first thing they notice in a person. As your kid grows and develops, there will come a time when you need to invest in their orthodontic treatments. Research shows that around 40% of children develop dental activities by the time they get to Kindergarten. Prioritizing this need benefits them by improving their oral health, hygiene, speech problem, confidence and protects them from having complications or disorders as they grow older. Your children might need to get braces and so getting an orthodontist will be essential. The preferred age to begin this treatment with your orthodontist is at the age of seven. This is the period when children tend to develop crooked teeth, overbites, and underbites. An orthodontist will be quick to point these out, assess the situation and provide you with a way forward. They also are well versed with various dental treatments that are perfect for the early development stages.
The most significant decision you will need to make when your child clocks seven years is choosing the right orthodontist for your kids. You want to make sure that whoever you choose is capable of the task. With adequate research and evaluation, you will be able to make an informed decision regarding your kid’s orthodontist.
Here are a few tips that you can use.
1. Check the Specialist’s credentials and certification.
Orthodontists specialize in orthodontic treatment and care, unlike typical dentists and pediatric dentists. Orthodontists have an extra level of education since they undertake a two to three-year course after completing dental school. Here, they get to study at an accredited orthodontic residency program. This provides them with the qualification as specialists in many fields, including orthodontics, a specialty in moving teeth, and aligning jaws. This extra education is thus well educated and uniquely qualified to take care of your child’s dental health and smile. Orthodontists also receive certification from the American Board of Orthodontics Specialty Certification exams.
2. Does the orthodontist have experience with children?
When looking for an orthodontist that you can trust, you need to know whether they can handle your child. Is the patient? Does he have a great personality? How is the orthodontist’s environment? Imagine things from your child’s perspective and according to their personality. You can’t expect your kids to be relaxed in an orthodontist’s office that is unwelcoming. Children are typically happier being in a child-friendly office. You can ask to take a tour of the orthodontist’s office of the orthodontist you have in mind before you make your decision. This way, you will be sure that your kids will be comfortable during their visits.
3. How is the before and aftercare treatment?
How the orthodontist and the staff treat you when you walk in for a consultation and treat you afterward is vital to assess how they treat their patients. Is the staff friendly? Do they provide a clean and organized environment? The first session typically involves a review of your child’s medical history. You will also be required to undergo an oral exam and also take an x-ray. If your orthodontist recommends treatment, a preliminary treatment plan will be curated by your orthodontist and explained to you. The first consultation is also the best time to inquire about the cost of the treatment and the acceptable payment options. If any concerns or queries, the first consultation would be the best time to address them. This will enable you to decide whether they can offer your kid the treatment you desire. Aftercare refers to the follow-up treatments or appointments depending on the progress of your child. Feel free to ask what they offer to encourage and support proper dental care for your child at home?
4. Ask for referrals from other parents and read up on the reviews.
The best resource you can trust when looking for an orthodontist is either your family dentist, who can refer you to a local orthodontist, friends, family members, neighbors, or co-workers. You can enquire on the level of care their children receive while in the hands of the orthodontist. You can also enquire about the prices and the several options of treatments that the best orthodontist in NYC or your location may offer.
Conclusion
Taking care of your kid’s oral health is an investment for their future. Making the decision on an orthodontist needs research and adequate planning. After all, this is your child’s health, and nothing is more important than their happiness and care.