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How to Prepare Your Child for Braces or Clear aligners?

Scheduling a consultation with an orthodontist is an important step for parents and their children. During the consultation, the orthodontist will discuss the treatment options available, so it's important to prepare for the financial aspect of the treatment. It's also important to explain the importance of oral hygiene and regular checkups, as well as getting your child excited about the treatment. Make sure they know what to expect, and that you are there to be supportive every step of the way. Let's look at each of these items individually:

1. Schedule a consultation with an orthodontist: The first step in preparing your child for braces or clear aligners is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. During this visit, the orthodontist will examine your child's teeth and jaws to determine the best treatment option.

2. Discuss the treatment options: During the consultation, the orthodontist will explain the different treatment options available, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners. It is important to discuss the pros and cons of each option with your child to help them understand what to expect.

3. Prepare for the financial aspect: Braces and clear aligners can be costly, so it's important to research your insurance coverage and any payment plans or financing options that are available.

4. Explain the importance of oral hygiene: Braces or clear aligners require extra care when it comes to oral hygiene. Encourage your child to brush and floss regularly and to avoid foods that can damage the braces.

5. Get your child excited: Braces and clear aligners can be a big change for your child, but it's important to remind them that the end result will be a beautiful, straight smile. Show them pictures of people with braces or clear aligners and talk to them about the benefits of having straight teeth.

6. Make sure they know what to expect: Make sure your child knows what to expect during the treatment process, including how long the treatment will take, how often they will need to visit the orthodontist, and what to expect during the adjustment appointments.

7. Be supportive: The process of getting braces or clear aligners can be difficult for your child, so it's important to be supportive throughout the process. Let your child know that you are there for them and that you are proud of them for taking this step towards a healthier smile.

8. Having braces means that your child's mouth is going to feel uncomfortable after the braces are fitted and after each adjustment. It also means that there are lots of foods they can't eat until the braces are removed. Your orthodontist will give you a list, but the general rule is nothing too crunchy, hard, chewy, or sticky. Keep plenty of braces-friendly foods like soft fruits, yogurt, soups, smoothies, ice cream, and other goodies so you can follow a braces-friendly diet easily. Even if your child is wearing clear aligners e.g. Invisalign which are removeable for mealtimes, it's good to have softer foods on hand as their teeth will still feel sensitive.

In summary, taking the time to plan ahead can ensure that the orthodontic treatment is successful.