What to Expect When Your Child Gets Braces

If your child needs braces, you’ve probably already started preparing for the big change. It can seem overwhelming to begin, but learning and preparing for what’s to come can help the process seem less daunting. These are a few things you can watch out for when your child gets braces.

The Costs

Braces are a permanent medical procedure, which makes them expensive. Braces usually cost anywhere from $2,000-7,000 from start to finish. The benefits to your child’s health are well worth the investment, but it can feel daunting to take on something that is so costly. However, there are a lot of organizations that help families cover the cost of orthodontic treatment. If you’re worried about the affordability of braces, do some research into local and national organizations that are willing to help cover the cost. You can also check with your orthodontist to see if they have any recommendations for financial aid.

Length of Treatment

The length of orthodontic treatment varies based on the amount of work needed. If your child has jaw problems or other oral health concerns, it may extend the length of treatment. Braces treatment averages between 16-18 months, but the only sure way to know how long your child’s orthodontic treatment will be is to consult a professional. An orthodontist can determine how long your child needs braces and the extent of the treatment.

Change of Lifestyle

To ensure the braces treatment goes as smoothly as possible, there are changes you may need to make to your child’s lifestyle. For example, many foods are prohibited for individuals with braces. Foods like popcorn, caramel, and hard candies can damage the brackets or wires of your child’s braces. Your child will also have to clean their teeth and braces thoroughly after every meal. Your child’s orthodontist will provide you with helpful tools to ensure no food becomes trapped in the hardware. Encourage your child to take care of their braces. If these lifestyle changes are ignored, it can extend the length of treatment and be more costly.

Braces can boost your child’s self-esteem and improve their overall health, but it may take some time to adjust. Plan ahead for the changes you may have to make once your child gets braces. Becoming informed on what you can expect when your child gets braces can make the transition easier for the both of you.

Check out this article on dental problems you need to get checked out!