Orthodontist for Children: The Top Five Things to Consider Before Making an Appointment

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:

 

  1. 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.  

 

  1. 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. 

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.  

 

  1. 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.

Dr Wang

Dr. Wang, DDS, MSc, FRCD(C)

ORTHODONTIST

Orthodontic specialist, founder of PacificWest Dental Group. Helping people get the perfect smile since 1994!

Dr Kevin

Dr. Kevin Lee, DMD, MSc, FRCD(C)

ORTHODONTIST

Specialist in Orthodontics, UBC alumni. Love helping patients get a beautiful smile. Part-time clinical instructor at UBC. 

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