Top Five Orthodontic-Related Questions Parents Want Answered

Your child’s dentist has called you into the office to recommend orthodontic care for your child. While your child is all smiles, enjoying their sugar-free treat or sticker, your head is spinning with common orthodontic-related questions. This guide may help you explore the world of child orthodontics.

Why an orthodontist and not my routine dentist?
As aforementioned in an earlier blog, orthodontists receive additional training beyond that required to become a dentist. The extra residency training adds on two to three years of orthodontic expertise. The residency training is additionally backed by the American Dental Association, and orthodontists become members of the American Association of Orthodontists upon completion of their residency training. Most dentists receive very little training in dental school related to orthodontics.  This makes specialty training particularly important in the field of orthodontics.

Did I do something wrong with my child’s teeth? Should I have done something differently to prevent the need for braces?
Every mouth is different, and while some habits can play a part in teeth development problems, orthodontic problems are mostly a cause of genetics or unforeseen developmental issues. Orthodontic treatment can also be completed as interceptive treatment. It can help correct crowded teeth, jaw growth or development problems, ectopic tooth growth, gaps, overbites, late-bloomer tooth eruption and more.

What age do I need to start my child’s treatment?
While your dentist monitors your child’s teeth and jaw development, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that each child have an initial orthodontic consultation when your child is seven years old. Most initial consultations are free or reduced cost. The assessment is intended to be educational, not a scare tactic. If your child is not ready for treatment or has no need of treatment at that time, your orthodontist will typically continue to monitor their development until all of their adult teeth are fully erupted.

 

How long can I expect my child to need corrective dental care?
Just like stated earlier, every case is different because of the variety of orthodontic problems that need to be considered. Most children, however, complete their orthodontic care within about two years. Upon the completion of braces, it is highly recommended to wear a retainer to continue to hold the teeth in their final position. Many adults require orthodontic treatment a second time even if they already had treatment as a child because they stopped wearing a retainer. Bonus: If there was early orthodontic care in your child’s life, the second phase of treatment will usually be a shorter time frame.

What are braces going to cost me?
Each child has individualized needs, and those costs are approximated at their initial consultation. Invisalign and clear braces provide additional options to traditional metal braces, so the cost can vary significantly depending on the treatment options chosen.
Money-saving tips:
1. Get second opinions
2. Look for incentives including low-interest financing and discounts for payment in full.
3. Compare insurance plans and get the plan which provides the best orthodontic benefits by seeing an in-network provider.

Orthodontic treatment does not have to overwhelm you. We welcome any inquiries, and you can trust us to be honest with you. We welcome second opinions because we feel confident in the value we provide to our patients for their orthodontic treatment. We provide free initial consultations and are happy to discuss treatment options with you.  We ultimately are here for you and your child to help you be healthier  and achieve your dream smile.

Budd Orthodontics services both Phoenix and Scottsdale and focuses on child and adult orthodontics.  For your free consultation, call either the Phoenix location at 602.956.4530 or the Scottsdale location at 602.493.3338 to reserve your appointment time!

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