Orthodontic treatments are effective for patients of all ages, but it’s easier to straighten the teeth of a child than to straighten the teeth of a teenager or an adult, as children’s jaws aren’t fully developed.
So what can you expect during your child’s first orthodontic visit? Below, we asked our experts at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics in Corona, California, to explain what happens during an initial consultation.
Diagnosing your child’s orthodontic problems
Our experts will take a panoramic X-ray and images of the inside of your child’s mouth to get a good picture of your child’s misaligned teeth. In addition, they might do a physical exam of the mouth.
After diagnosing the problem, our staff will present you with the treatment options available for your child.
Understanding the timeline and the costs associated with braces
Next, our staff will present you with the timeline of the treatment, and the costs associated with braces. The costs vary based on the type of braces your child will be wearing.
Metal braces are usually cheaper and sturdier. They’re a good treatment option for both mild and severe misalignments. The downside of metal braces is that they’re noticeable. However, some children enjoy the look of braces.
Another option is removable and transparent braces, such as Invisalign. These are removable, so they’re easier to clean. Because they’re transparent, other people won’t notice them. The downsides are that they’re more expensive and can’t be used to fix severe misalignments.
Our staff will ensure you fully understand the costs of braces for your child and help you make the best decision based on your budget and your child’s needs.
Typically, the entire process takes about half an hour.
Moving forward with the orthodontic treatment
If you decide to go ahead with the orthodontic treatment, during the next appointment you can expect to spend about 40-50 minutes in our office while our staff installs the braces and gives you and your child detailed instructions with regards to hygiene and ensuring the braces don’t get damaged while your child is eating.
Getting braces as a child or young teen makes it easier to straighten crooked teeth, but it can also reduce the risk of developing other possible complications associated with misalignments, such as jaw pain.
Contact us to schedule an appointment, and find out what type of braces your child needs and what costs are associated with it.