Frequently Asked Questions About Braces & Orthodontic Treatment By Parents

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, all children should be evaluated by a trained orthodontic specialist at age 7. While most parents will learn during this appointment that their child won’t need early treatment, some will discover that early treatment can help to offset or even eliminate the need for future invasive treatment. To learn more about early evaluation, click here.

Can braces or other orthodontic treatment wait until later?

At RS Orthodontics, we can never make your treatment decisions for you. We will make our recommendations, and then it is up to you to decide whether to proceed with treatment or not. That being said, putting off orthodontic treatment – especially early evaluation treatment – can lead to greater complications later in life. In some cases, it can even lead to orthodontic problems that are no longer fixable. During your complimentary RS Ortho Smile Assessment, Dr. Sebbahi can discuss with you the pros and cons of waiting in your or your loved one’s individual case and will be able to explain the possible risks that delayed treatment may pose. Then you will be able to make an informed decision about how to proceed.

How will braces affect my child’s lifestyle?

For the most part, braces will not affect your child’s lifestyle in any major way. He or she will still be able to play the same sports or instruments and enjoy the same activities – although we do recommend a custom-made mouthguard to ensure that the braces and your child’s smile don’t get damaged or injured. If your child plays a wind instrument, there will be a period of adjustment, but this should pass quickly. The most important change your child will need to make is to avoid foods or drinks that may damage the brackets or increase the risk of tooth decay or gum disease. You can read more about foods and drinks to avoid, as well as how to brush and floss effectively with braces, on our Life With Braces page.

Will my child be teased while wearing braces?

It is quite rare for a child to encounter teasing due to his or her braces. Braces are incredibly common these days, and many children view them as a rite of passage and even enjoy showing them off with brightly colored rubber bands.