When to Start and What to Expect from Orthodontic Treatment for Children

The Smile Transformation Journey

Getting fixed braces or other orthodontic treatment for your child is about more than just straightening teeth — it’s an exciting journey towards a lifetime of confident smiles. While the process may seem daunting initially, a little preparation and the right mindset can make it a fun adventure for you and your child.

At TEETH @ Tiong Bahru, we follow a comprehensive approach to orthodontic treatment, ensuring every aspect of your child’s dental health is addressed. Our dentists are trained in the latest orthodontic techniques, providing effective and comfortable treatments for your child. 

Rather than wait for the full set of adult teeth to set in, bringing your child for their first trip to a dental surgeon or orthodontist when they are roughly 7 years old is best. By then, they should have a mixture of baby and adult teeth, giving your dental care team a wealth of information on your child’s dental development. They’ll be able to see if there are any potential issues like an improper jaw relationship, excessive crowding, or impacted teeth that might need an intervention before getting fixed braces. 

This early visit can make the overall experience easier, as it’s easier before any issues settle in!

As a parent, you may also notice warning signs that something needs tending. These can include an early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, mouth breathing, jaw clicking, cheek biting, or, in some cases, a noticeable facial imbalance. 

Your child’s orthodontic care provider will be able to determine the cause of the issue, if any of these warning signs have surfaced, and spot any potential problems, like malocclusions, at an early stage. The dentist will thoroughly examine, take X-rays and impressions, and start building the roadmap for your joint adventure with your child. 

Mapping Out the Smile Trail

When your dentist decides it’s a good time for your child to get orthodontic treatment, they’ll lay out a few possible routes towards that healthier smile. TEETH @ Tiong Bahru offers a diverse range of orthodontic treatments, including the highly sought-after Invisalign© and micro-implant aligners. These solutions provide effective results with minimal discomfort, allowing for easier and more flexible treatment options than traditional braces. These are the two most common options you have likely heard of. However, different variations within these options are worth going into.

Braces don’t necessarily have to cover the entire mouth. It depends on your child’s specific orthodontic issues. Many orthodontists are now exploring partial braces, which can address specific problems while the jaw grows, potentially making future treatment easier. Another effective option is a palatal expander, designed to widen a narrow upper jaw. This is particularly useful for conditions such as crossbites or overcrowding. Both partial braces and palatal expanders are most effective when used at a younger age, as a child’s mouth is still developing and more adaptable.

Invisalign© clear aligners are another popular orthodontic treatment option. Aligners are clear moulds that snap over your teeth and slowly correct their positioning over time. These are usually worn a week before getting adjusted so that they can incrementally shift your child’s teeth at a steady pace. They’re not an option for everyone, though, as aligners work slowly and may not make sense in situations with crossbites or overcrowding. The good news about aligners is that they’re discrete, which may be preferable for your child. 

Keeping Children Excited and Motivated

The key to a successful smile journey? Keep your child excited and motivated! Frame it as a fun adventure and celebrate each step along the way. Let them pick out the colours of their braces, or aligner case designs. Promise a special treat after their first adjustment. Take silly “brace face” selfies together. A positive attitude can make a world of difference. 

If your child is getting braces, stock up on orthodontic wax, travel toothbrushes, and any other recommended supplies to help with potential irritation or discomfort. For clear aligners, make sure you have aligner cases for school and activities. Either way, load up on soft, braces-friendly snacks for those first few days of adjustment. Oatmeal, eggs, pasta, and, if you’re feeling like a treat, ice cream is good for your child as their mouths are getting used to their orthodontic treatment. 

Of course, there may be some bumps along the smile trail. Your child may experience some discomfort, especially after tightening appointments. Reassure them that this is normal and have soft foods and over-the-counter pain medication on hand.

Is Your Child Ready for Orthodontic Treatment

Before you know it, your child will be approaching the summit — the day those braces finally come off, or that last aligner tray is worn! 

Be sure to celebrate this major milestone with a special treat or outing. But remember to keep up with retainers and any other orthodontic recommendations to maintain that hard-earned, beautiful new smile. 

Getting orthodontic treatment is an exciting rite of passage. For that journey, you want a skilled professional who makes your child feel at ease and has experience working with young patients. 

Make an appointment with us at TEETH @ Tiong Bahru to see how we can best support you and your child as you embark on this adventure together. Get started today and work towards a lifetime of confident smiles!