Parents' guide to orthodontics
Thinking about your child and whether orthodontic treatment might be needed at some point? You’ve come to the right place. The Parent’s Guide to Orthodontics will help you understand how the process works, from understanding early check-ups to post-treatment best practices.
Orthodontic treatment can be a very important part of your child’s oral health care. Teeth that work together make it possible to bite and chew properly, and contribute to clear speech. Teeth that function well tend to have a pleasing appearance. The beautiful smile that results from orthodontic treatment is the outward sign of good oral health and sets the stage for overall well-being.
Braces
Before getting braces, visit your family dentist for a cleaning and check-up. Ask your orthodontist how far ahead of your appointment to get braces that your dental appointment should be. Visits to your dentist should continue at least every six months for the duration of treatment, or more often, if recommended. If you typically take an antibiotic before dental visits, make sure to notify your orthodontist, who will advise you if pre-medication is recommended before the appointment to place braces. In addition, let your orthodontist know of any allergies you have, especially any allergies to metals including nickel.
Understanding Early Check-ups
The Zimbabwean Association of Orthodontists recommends children get their first check-up with a ZISO orthodontist at the first recognition of an orthodontic problem, but no later than age 7. Around that age, children have a mix of baby (primary) and permanent teeth. An examination as permanent teeth take the place of baby teeth, and as the face and jaws are growing, gives the orthodontist a wealth of information. If a problem exists, or if one is developing, your orthodontist is able to advise you on whether treatment is recommended, when it should begin, what form treatment will take, and estimate its length.
Importance of Orthodontics
Thinking about your child and whether orthodontic treatment might be needed at some point? You’ve come to the right place. Orthodontic treatment can be a very important part of your child’s oral health care.
The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy, functional “bite,” which is part tooth alignment and part jaw position. When jaws and teeth line up correctly, they are able to function as nature intended. This promotes oral health and general physical health. That orthodontic treatment also brings about an attractive smile is an added bonus.
What Parents Should Loook For
Teeth that work together make it possible to bite and chew properly, and contribute to clear speech. Teeth that function well will tend to have a pleasing appearance. The beautiful smile that results from orthodontic treatment is the outward sign of good oral health and sets the stage for overall well-being. Learn more here about baby teeth and permanent teeth.
Baby teeth begin to emerge in infancy, but they are already there at birth. Most children have their full set of 20 baby teeth around age 3. Usually, the bottom front teeth are the first to appear and the first to be lost.
Begin dental hygiene in infancy. Clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after meals, and continue the practice as teeth begin to emerge. Help your toddler brush his teeth twice a day, and begin daily flossing when two teeth touch. Take your child to the dentist for a check-up after the first tooth appears, but no later than the first birthday. Keep up regular dental appointments so baby teeth stay healthy and in place until it’s time for permanent teeth to come in.