When speaking with your dentist or orthodontist, ask these questions
Braces are very common in children, and your child's dentist will almost certainly recommend that you see an orthodontist at some time. (The American Association of Orthodontists recommends doing so before the age of seven.) But does your child truly need braces?
When you arrive at the orthodontist's office, the orthodontist will frequently presume that you are there because you are already interested in obtaining braces. The dialogue may proceed based on that assumption, so if you want to know if your child needs braces, make it clear right away that this is your primary question.
You can also start this conversation with your child's normal dentist, as they will be familiar with his or her teeth and should be able to advise you on what you might learn during an orthodontic consultation. Here are some questions to put to any or both of those experts:
Inquire about how the teeth work, not just how they seem.
Braces and other orthodontic treatments can be used for functional reasons, such as ensuring that your child's teeth do not make it difficult for them to swallow their food or talk clearly. They can also be done for cosmetic reasons, i.e. to make the teeth look nicer. These goals frequently overlap, with teeth straightening providing both functions. So, if you're not concerned about the appearance of your child's teeth, be sure to specify whether you're asking about health or functionality issues.
Inquire about the advantages and disadvantages
This isn't just a question about braces; it should be your guiding philosophy for each conversation with a healthcare provider. When contemplating a treatment, consider the following:
- What are the advantages of doing so?
- What are the disadvantages?
- What will happen if we do not act?
- What are your options?
If the answer to the question "what if he doesn't get braces?" " is "perhaps his teeth will be slightly crooked," then you can make your own decision based on how crooked they are and how you and your child feel about it. If the answer is that your child may have breathing or swallowing issues, there may be a stronger cause to proceed with braces.
Inquire about the outcomes
I don't just mean requesting before-and-after images of patients with similar beginning positions, though that can be beneficial. Make sure to inquire about the spectrum of possible results from beginning orthodontic treatment, as well as the likelihood of each result. Braces don't always solve the problem (especially if your child doesn't use their retainer consistently). And success rates may differ depending on the sort of equipment utilized, your child's age, and other circumstances.
Inquire about timing
Just because you're there for the appointment doesn't imply this is your child's final or only opportunity to acquire braces. Some problems may have an optimal age for resolution; others may improve or deteriorate through time. If you're not sure whether to proceed, consider whether anything would change if you waited a year before making a decision. And, if you feel pressured or are unsure if you can trust all your orthodontist says, you are free to seek a second opinion.
#Braces #Teeth #Dentist #ChildBrace
SOURCE: lifehacker
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