How to Choose an Orthodontist for Your Child

Does your child have misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, or dental issues affecting their smile? Don’t worry; nearly 45% of children need braces to fix misaligned bites and other issues, so you are not alone.

Like adults, children too can benefit from orthodontic treatments and enjoy straighter teeth and better smiles. 

This guide takes you through the key considerations for choosing the best kids’ orthodontist. But first, check out the primary signs that your child might need orthodontic treatment.

When Should You Take Your Child To An Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends the age of 7 for the first orthodontic treatment. Your child is probably growing the first four to eight temporary teeth at this age.

Some warning signs may appear on your child’s teeth before that age, and you may want to visit an orthodontist. These issues include:

• Teeth grinding, especially at night
• Extreme finger sucking
• Mouth breathing
• Misaligned teeth and jaws
• Crowded or misplaced teeth

Your orthodontist may recommend braces or other corrective procedures for your child.

Tips for Choosing the Best Orthodontist for Your Kid

Your child deserves the best treatment, so you should only work with the best orthodontist. Here are a few tips to help you pick the ideal expert for your child’s oral health.

Ask About Experience

A proven and experienced orthodontist will often deliver exceptional results paired with a comforting experience. But how do you know if the specialist is experienced? The first step is to check their credentials.

Many orthodontic specialists proudly display their academic credentials and professional history on their website. This can be a great source of information when researching.

Read Online Reviews

Online reviews can help you gather more insights about a particular orthodontist. What do other patients say about their experience during treatment?

A great place to check out reviews is by going directly to Google. These reviews are shared by patients who have had experience in dealing with a given orthodontist.

Consider Communication Skills And Friendliness

Communication is a primary factor for any specialist dealing with children. Since most children tend to be anxious about the treatment, you should find a friendly orthodontist who will not only treat your child but also make the child comfortable.

During your consultation, check how the expert talks to your child and even you as the parent. 

Ask About Payment Plans

Orthodontist procedures are quite beneficial to children, but they can also be an investment. If you are on a budget, you might need to compare what different orthodontists offer to choose the most suitable for you.

Find out if the office offers payment plans and check to see if the orthodontist accepts insurance. 

Check Out The Practice

Orthodontic treatments can often lead to many visits to the office. As such, you should ensure the facility has a clean and welcoming environment for you and your child.

Bottom Line

Choosing an orthodontist for your child can seem like a daunting task, especially if this is your first time. Hopefully, the above tips will guide you in selecting the best expert for your child’s treatment. Schedule a consultation today with the experienced orthodontist at Smiles By Pocock in North Vancouver.