What To Know About Orthodontics And Your Child
When it comes to your child's dental health, sometimes it requires more than just regular visits to the dentist and good oral hygiene to keep their teeth healthy. Crooked or crowded teeth and misaligned bites can have a major impact on your child's oral health. If your child has these issues, orthodontics may be able to help. Correcting these issues early on can help set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth. Here's what you should know about orthodontics and your child.
When To Visit An Orthodontist
While your child is losing their baby teeth and gaining their permanent teeth, it can be difficult to determine whether or not there are any issues. This is where an orthodontic exam may come in handy. An orthodontist can determine the best course of action if any is needed. It's recommended that your child have their first orthodontic screening by age seven. Braces are then typically put on between the ages of 8 and 14. Most orthodontists prefer to wait until most of the permanent teeth have come in.
What To Expect
If your child requires a visit to a children's orthodontist, it's a good idea to know what may be ahead. At these appointments, the orthodontist will do a thorough examination with both photographs and x-rays being taken of your child's teeth. Impressions of their teeth may also be made. The orthodontist will then determine whether or not treatment is needed. If it is required, then the braces or other orthodontic appliances will be put into place. Every 6 to 10 weeks you will likely need to return for adjustments to be made. It's important to take these treatments seriously in order to see the best results possible.
The Cost
The cost of braces and other orthodontic treatments can be high. It's important to know how expensive it is typically in order to budget for these expenses. You can expect your child's braces to cost somewhere between $3,000 and $7,000. How much treatment costs depends on a variety of factors including the type of treatment required and how long treatment will take. Braces for kids may be partially covered by your dental insurance. Many orthodontists also offer payment plans that can help you deal with the costs of orthodontic treatments.
There are a few things that you should know about your child and orthodontics. The first orthodontic screening should be done around age seven in order to determine whether or not treatment may be needed. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the process of orthodontic treatment. Costs can vary, but typically treatment costs a few thousand dollars. Budgeting for these costs is key. For more information, contact your local children's orthodontist today.
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