My 8-year-old child has friends in braces. What age should I bring my child to an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontics (AA0) recommends orthodontic check-ups begin at age seven. Having a check-up at this age doesn’t guarantee braces. It allows the orthodontist to catch very specific problems that benefit from early intervention. After the first visit, most children are seen once or twice a year to monitor growth and development until around 11 - 13 years old when braces are typically started. If early treatment is recommended, the problem, treatment plan and goals should be very well explained and understood. If not, please seek another opinion. You may very well save yourself a lot of money and your child the experience of braces twice.
My child is anxious about going to the orthodontist. How can I help?
Parents can prepare at home by talking positively about the experience. If you have questions about the process, call us before your visit. It helps to have an orthodontist and team who will take time to get to know your child. Children who are hesitant tend to do well in our calm and relaxed environment with time to ask questions. With a little patience and understanding, most children end up doing great
Am I too old for braces?
If your teeth are healthy, we can straighten them. All ages can benefit from a beautiful smile.
When can I stop wearing my retainer?
Please don’t stop. We tell our patients at night for life. One of the main reasons adults seek treatment is to re-straighten teeth because they stopped wearing retainers.
Dr. Wes Chladny at Dr. Wes Orthodontics is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of orthodontic problems. He has been creating beautiful smiles for 16 years and lives with his family in Thompson's Station.
