Orthodontic treatment can occur at any age, but the Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends your child see an orthodontist for the first time around age seven. At this age, your child should have a mix of primary (“baby”) and permanent teeth. An experienced orthodontist in Surrey will be able to tell if your child’s teeth and jaw are developing normally, or if they could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Here are the top five things to consider before making an orthodontist appointment for your child:
- Is the Orthodontist Family Friendly?
How do you choose the right orthodontic clinic for your child? You’ll want an orthodontist who is experienced and qualified to meet your child’s needs. When choosing an orthodontist for your child, it’s important to know that the doctors and staff have experience working with children and will communicate with both patients and parents. A family-friendly orthodontist in Vancouver will make for a more positive experience for everyone involved.
- Do You Have Any Questions?
Before seeing an orthodontist for the first time, it’s important to come prepared with any questions you or your child may have. What are the treatment options? How long will the treatment last? Will the treatment be painful? What can my child eat while wearing braces? These are just a few of the many questions you can ask at your child’s first appointment, depending on your child’s specific orthodontic needs.
- How Does Your Child Feel About the Appointment?
It can be nerve-racking before seeing an orthodontist for the first time. Your child might be worried about seeing an orthodontist for the first time, or perhaps hesitant to start a treatment such as braces. You’ll want to do everything you can to help them prepare. Be sure to listen to your child’s questions and concerns. It can help to remind them of the benefits of orthodontic treatment.
- What Happens at an Initial Consultation?
Before making an appointment for an orthodontist, you’ll want to know what will happen at the initial consultation. It can also help your child if they know what to expect. During an initial consultation, the staff will perform a visual examination of your child’s bite to help understand any orthodontic issues. Then, a treatment plan can be recommended. Be sure to come with your questions and concerns so these can be discussed at the initial meeting.
- How Much Will Treatment Cost?
Orthodontic treatments can be expensive. The cost of treatment will vary greatly depending on the complexity of the issue, and you’ll want to find an orthodontist who is upfront about any costs after an initial consultation. You’ll want to look into your insurance plan to see if any or all of your child’s treatments will be covered. When making an orthodontist appointment, look for a clinic that offers flexible payment plans.
Scheduling an orthodontist appointment for your child can be overwhelming. At PacificWest Dental in Vancouver, we want you to feel well-informed and confident in your child’s care. Our experienced family-friendly orthodontists are here to answer any questions you might have about your child’s treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
