How to Find the Best Orthodontist for Your Child
Choosing an orthodontist to treat your child’s smile can be overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for in the perfect orthodontist. Ideally, they would be a specialist who has the experience, expertise, great reviews and someone who will put your child at ease and listen to any concerns you have. This guide on finding the best orthodontist for your child will walk you through all the steps you need to take to find the right orthodontist.
What Is the Best Age to Start Orthodontic Treatment?
You should schedule an assessment for your child between the ages of 7 to 9. Find an orthodontist who offers complimentary evaluations. In some cases, children can benefit from early treatment to expand their arch while they are still growing. But for the majority of cases, teens should schedule an orthodontic exam when their first adult molars come in, usually between 10 and 12. Aside from children who need the expansion mentioned above, most children under age ten will not be candidates for braces. Again, in most cases, we wait until most or all of the adult teeth have come in. As we have said many times at Tollgate Orthodontics, “You can’t straighten what you don’t have!”. We stress however that it is best to take advantage of our free consultation beginning around age 7 to 9 to see where your child stands.
Types of Treatment Available
There are many possible types of treatment available, braces, expansion or Invisalign (or clear aligners) which is a non-invasive solution that allows you to achieve your dream smile while concealing your child’s braces. Aligners move teeth without metal brackets and wires, which can be uncomfortable. They’re ideal if you have a busy schedule or don’t want to cause embarrassment in front of your classmates or coworkers. However, aligners only work if the patient wears them. So, for some, braces might be the best option as they are predictable and no patient intervention or compliance is required to get great results.
Cost Of Children’s Braces
Treatment costs vary by the needs of the patient. Some children will need longer treatment times than others and therefore may have a different cost than one of their friends. At Tollgate Orthodontics, we use high quality brackets that speed up treatment time, but without extra costs to the patient. Look for high quality brackets and board-certified doctors. Orthodontic treatment is an investment which can last a lifetime. Look for offices like Tollgate Orthodontics, which offer payment plans that fit your budget.
Where Should I Go for An Assessment?
Straightening teeth is a serious business. Please look for a specialist. You can consult the American Association of Orthodontists website (AAOinfo.org) for those doctors qualified to provide orthodontic treatment. That way, you can ensure your child will receive high-quality care. You can also check online reviews to see what others are saying about the doctors in your area. Ask your dentist and dental hygienist who they recommend. Friends and family can also be a good source. Then schedule an evaluation and ask all the questions you have about treatment. A quality orthodontics office understands that treatment is a big decision and will be happy to fully answer any questions you may have.