As a parent, you want to ensure that your child has the best possible experience when it comes to orthodontic treatment. At Walt Orthodontics, we understand and want the same for your child too! From the moment your child comes into our office for their first appointment, we provide personalized treatment with the utmost care and comfort in mind. Our team is here to help answer any questions and explain each step of the process, so both parents and their children feel prepared.
Whether your child will use braces or Invisalign, there are a few steps you can take at-home to help prepare them for their exciting journey ahead.
Explain the process: It’s important to explain to your child what orthodontic treatment entails, and how braces or Invisalign can help improve their oral health and appearance. You can show them pictures or videos to help them understand what to expect. Our Instagram is a great reference to see patients who have started or completed treatment. You can also show them before and after photos on our website too.
Address concerns: Many children may have concerns or fears about getting braces or Invisalign. It’s important to listen to your child’s concerns and address them in a reassuring manner. For example, if your child is worried about pain, you can explain that any discomfort they may experience will be temporary and that the end result will be worth it! Remind your child that Walt Orthodontics also offers dental monitoring, so they can get in touch with us through the DM app for questions and support at home too.
Discuss oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment, as braces or Invisalign can make it harder to clean teeth properly. Discuss the importance of brushing and flossing. Our team can help show your child how to properly care for their braces or Invisalign aligners. You may want to invest in a water flosser or other oral hygiene tools to make the process easier.
Plan for meals: Eating with braces or Invisalign can be challenging, especially during the first few days or weeks of treatment. Plan ahead by stocking up on soft foods and avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage braces or Invisalign aligners. Encourage your child to take their time when eating and to avoid chewing on hard objects like pencils or ice.
Encourage positive thinking: Orthodontic treatment can be a long journey, and it’s important to encourage your child to stay positive and focused on the end result. Celebrate milestones along the way, such as getting braces off or switching to a new set of Invisalign aligners. Remind your child that the end result will be a healthier, happier smile.
By taking these steps, you can help prepare your child for orthodontic treatment and ensure that they have a positive experience. Our team at Walt Orthodontics is of course here to help! Remember to communicate openly with your child and our staff throughout the process, and to offer plenty of support and encouragement along the way! We love to cheer on our Vaughan community and help them achieve healthy and aligned smiles!
