3 Questions Parents Should Ask About Their Child's Braces

Posted on: 7 June 2019

From correcting misaligned teeth to straightening a bite and creating space, the benefits of braces for kids should be easy to see. Unfortunately, many parents struggle with the fact that their child will need to wear braces for a specific period of time. Thankfully, proper understanding is possible as long as the right questions are asked. If your child will be wearing braces, here are a few important questions to ask the orthodontist.

Will Braces Cause Pain?

As a parent, you want your child to be comfortable, healthy, and happy at all times, so you may worry if new braces will cause your child any pain. Pain is usually not something your child will experience, but they may feel some pressure and discomfort at different times throughout their orthodontic treatment.

For example, when the braces are installed, your child may experience some light pinching and pressure. As your child adjusts to the braces, they may feel soreness and discomfort in their mouth and jaw as well. In most cases, this discomfort subsides quickly.

Your child will need to visit the orthodontist periodically to check and tighten the braces and connecting wires throughout the course of treatment. After these appointments, your child may feel some discomfort in their mouth and jaw. Again, the discomfort and soreness will not last.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

If you have talked to friends and family who have children already in braces, you may have discussed the overall cost of orthodontic treatment. For many people, the cost of braces is significant. For others, the cost is simple and affordable. Since everyone's finances are different, most dentists offer many options to ensure that you can afford the essential orthodontic care your child needs.

From monthly payment plans to cash discounts and even ample coverage by many dental insurance companies, there are ways to afford your child's orthodontic treatment.

It is also important to remember that orthodontic care is an investment. For many children, braces will help them avoid costly and overwhelming dental problems in the future, such as overcrowding, unappealing smiles, bite misalignments, and even TMJ disorder.

What Type of Maintenance Do Braces Require?

Finally, you may wonder how to properly care for not only the braces but also your child's oral health while they are wearing braces.

Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups should continue while your child is under the care of an orthodontist. Proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are even more important while your child wears braces because food and bacteria can become stuck in the braces and connecting wires.

Be sure to monitor your child to ensure that they are brushing and flossing properly to reduce the risk of decay and gum disease.

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