The top 4 things all parents should know about their child having braces fitted.
You’ve taken your child for a dental check-up and you have been told they need some orthodontic work. This can feel very worrying for parents, as not only is this quite a large procedure for anyone to undertake, but it can make you begin to worry about other things: Will it make them socially withdrawn? Will it cause them pain? Will they resent me for it?
While all of these thoughts are normal, it is best to focus on the positive aspects of your child having braces in Kings Hill and to learn as much about this orthodontic procedure as you can.
So, here are the top 4 things that all parents should know before their child is fitted with braces in Kings Hill.
It isn’t just about appearances
It is easy to jump to the conclusion that having a fitted aligner is solely about improving how your child looks.
While this is an added bonus, if your dentist believes that orthodontic work is needed, then your child may be at a higher risk of developing an extreme over or underbite, protrusions or even issues with extreme crowding. These common problems all carry their own disadvantages if left untreated, which go far beyond aesthetic appearances.
You will be visiting the dentist more often
Be prepared for more dental check-ups and visits to the orthodontist and hygienist.
This is to help track the progress of the realignment but is also to make sure that your child’s teeth are healthy throughout the treatment, as wearing an aligner can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease; better to be safe than sorry!
Long term benefits are the aim
The aim of any orthodontic treatment is to gain benefits in the long term.
While your child may be complaining about how they look, it is important to remind them and yourself that it is easier to undertake this procedure now, than it will be when they are older. Plus, as soon as the treatment is completed, their new smile will make it all worth it!
It is normal for it to be a bit uncomfortable
You obviously don’t want to put your child through anything that can cause discomfort, but it is a reality that when your child goes through an orthodontic procedure, it is going to be slightly uncomfortable for them.
This is due to the teeth and the roots being moved and pulled during ‘tightening’ of the aligner, but this discomfort should be short term and many parents are able to control this feeling with over the counter painkillers. Talk to your child’s orthodontist about the most effective painkillers that your child can take.
Of course, listen to your parental instinct and get your child seen as soon as possible by a dentist if they seem to be experiencing a high level of discomfort at any stage of the orthodontic treatment.