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Are you considering starting your child on their orthodontic journey, but you’re not quite sure if it’s the right time to start treatment? The good news is that there’s never a “wrong” time to get your child started with orthodontics. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.
However, there is one time of year that’s proven to be more convenient than the rest for starting your child’s orthodontic journey—summer break. Here are a few reasons why summertime is one of the best times to get braces in Fort Worth:
Reason #1: It's Easier to Adjust
Braces require a lot of adjustments, and not just with the braces themselves—the wearer must make some lifestyle and diet changes too. Your mouth has to adjust to having something new in it, which can make talking and eating difficult. And, you can no longer snack on certain hard foods you might have reached for in the past. Trying to adjust to all these things during the school year can make getting braces even more stressful for teens.
During summer break, there’s more time to stock the fridge with soft foods—and they’ll have time to get used to eating and drinking with all this new gear in their mouth when they’re in more control over their environment.
Reason #2: Manage Any Discomfort In the Privacy Of Your Own Home
Orthodontic technology has come a long way in recent years, but the process can still be slightly uncomfortable, especially at first. Although many kids do start braces treatment during the school year, all this newfound soreness can make it slightly difficult to focus on their studies. When you start orthodontic treatment in the summer, kids and teens have time to deal with any soreness from the comfort of their own homes without the added pressure of focusing on their classwork.
Reason #3: You'll Miss Less School and Get More Time to See the Dentist
When your child comes in for their initial orthodontic appointments, we have to cover a good amount of ground during these beginning phases. This includes things such as:
- Their initial consultation to see if they’re a good fit for braces
- A complete oral exam, including x-rays
- A discussion of our findings, treatment options, and what to expect during the treatment process
- Bonding and attaching the braces to the teeth
- And, making any adjustments if necessary
Summer break is a great time to get these lengthier orthodontic appointments out of the way without worrying about cutting into your kid’s school day. By the time the first day of school rolls around again, their treatment will have advanced to the point where they only need to come in for occasional checkups, which means you have more flexibility to schedule an appointment time that doesn’t disrupt their schedule. Plus, dental offices also tend to get busier when school is in session, so summer appointments are an easier time for everyone!
Reason #4: More Time To Get Into The Swing of a Cleaning Routine
When it comes to braces, dental hygiene often requires a little extra effort thanks to the wires and brackets. But, when your kids are tired after a long day of school, homework, and extracurricular activities, they might just want to dive into bed without even glancing at their toothbrushes.
When you don’t have to set an early morning alarm to catch the bus or go to bed early, you have plenty of hours in the day to find the best way to floss and brush effectively with your new braces. Establishing a cleaning routine isn’t only great for dental hygiene, but it’ll keep their treatment on track, which means they may be able to take their braces off sooner than later. That’s a win-win.
Summer Is a Great Time For Your Kids to Get Braces In Fort Worth
With long days full of fun and free from the obligations that come with school, summer break is the perfect time to start your child’s journey towards a healthier, straighter smile. Dr. Wilkinson, Dr. Harlin, and the entire Smile Fort Worth team are here to help get your family started.
While we believe your child’s smile can shine in every season, summer is a fantastic time to get started on orthodontic treatment. If you have a child who is ready for an orthodontic consultation, give us a call to schedule your free consultation.
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