Is your child seeing an orthodontist for the first time? This important step often raises questions and sometimes causes a bit of anxiety. With proper preparation, this experience can turn into a positive one.
At Orthodontie Côte-des-Neiges, Dr. Tram-Anh Nguyen welcomes hundreds of children every year. She knows exactly how to reassure young patients and their parents during this first visit.
What you will learn in this article
• How to mentally prepare your child before the visit
• What to expect during the first orthodontic appointment
• The exams and evaluations done by the orthodontist
• Important questions to ask during this initial consultation
• What to do after the first visit
• The ideal age to plan this important first visit
The ideal age for the first orthodontic consultation
The Quebec Association of Orthodontists recommends the first evaluation around the age of 7. By this age, the first permanent molars have come in, and the first adult teeth start to appear, making it easier to detect potential issues.
An early consultation doesn’t necessarily mean immediate treatment. Sometimes, the orthodontist will simply recommend regular monitoring. This preventive approach helps avoid more complex treatments later.
Certain signs may require an earlier visit, such as a persistent thumb-sucking habit, chewing difficulties, or mouth breathing. If you notice these behaviours in your child, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation.
How to prepare your child mentally
Talk about the visit in a positive way a few days before the appointment. Explain that the orthodontist is a specialist who helps make teeth healthy and beautiful. Avoid using words like “pain” or “shots,” which can be intimidating.
Read some children’s books about visits to the dentist or orthodontist. These stories normalize the experience and answer questions in a child-friendly language. Your local library near the Côte-des-Neiges metro likely has a few relevant titles.
Stay calm and confident in yourself. Children quickly pick up on their parents’ anxiety. If you show assurance, your child will feel more at ease. Present this visit as an exciting step toward a beautiful smile.
What happens during the first appointment
The welcome at our Montreal orthodontics clinic is designed to put children at ease. Our team takes time to build a rapport with your young patient. We show the tools and explain each step using simple language.
The first part of the visit involves a complete visual examination of the mouth. Dr. Nguyen will look at the teeth, gums, tongue position, and jaw alignment. This examination is completely painless and only takes a few minutes.
Photos of the face and teeth are taken from various angles. These images document the initial condition and will help track progress over time. Many children find this part fun, especially when they can see the photos afterward.
The exams and evaluations performed
Panoramic X-rays may be needed to evaluate teeth that have not yet emerged. These images show the position of the permanent teeth still beneath the gums. Modern equipment minimizes radiation exposure.
A 3D digital scan often replaces traditional, uncomfortable impressions. This advanced technology captures the exact shape of the teeth in seconds. Children generally find this step much more pleasant than the older methods.
The orthodontist will also assess the available space for the upcoming permanent teeth. She’ll check whether baby teeth are falling out at the right time and if permanent teeth are coming in properly. This helps determine if orthodontic treatment will be necessary later on.
Important questions to ask
Take advantage of the first appointment to clear up any doubts. Ask if treatment is needed now or can wait a few years. Learn about the different options available, from traditional braces to more modern solutions.
Inquire about the estimated treatment duration if treatment is required. Also, ask about approximate costs and available payment options. Our clinic near the Côte-des-Neiges metro offers various financing solutions to accommodate families.
Don’t forget to ask how to prepare your child if treatment is needed. Find out what habits or foods to adopt or avoid to promote good dental health. This information will help you support your child through their orthodontic journey.
After the first appointment: next steps
If no immediate treatment is needed, the orthodontist will recommend regular follow-up visits. These check-ups allow us to monitor development and intervene at the optimal time. Most children will visit every 6 to 12 months until treatment becomes necessary.
If treatment is recommended, Dr. Nguyen will present a detailed plan during a second visit. This plan will include the type of appliance suggested, estimated treatment time, and specific goals. You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and make an informed decision.
Some issues, such as a narrow palate or misaligned jaw, may require early intervention. In these cases, early treatment prevents major complications later on.
Signs that require urgent orthodontic care
Between regular visits, watch for signs that may require urgent attention. A permanent tooth that grows in the wrong direction may need early intervention. A facial trauma that shifts a tooth also requires immediate evaluation.
Persistent jaw pain in your child is another concern. It could indicate a developing issue that will worsen without treatment. Our Côte-des-Neiges orthodontic clinic reserves time slots for such urgent situations.
Never wait for the problem to get worse out of fear of disturbing us. The quicker you act, the simpler and more effective the solutions are. Your child’s dental health is our top priority.
Creating a positive, lasting experience
Praise your child after the appointment, even if everything went smoothly. Positive reinforcement helps them see orthodontic visits as a pleasant experience. Perhaps plan an enjoyable activity after the appointment to celebrate.
Maintain a positive attitude, even if orthodontic treatment is necessary. Explain that many children wear braces, and it’s a normal part of growing up. Highlight the fun aspects, like choosing rubber band colours with their braces.
Your partner in dental health
At Orthodontie Côte-des-Neiges, we understand that the first visit is an important milestone for the whole family. Our team strives to create a reassuring and educational experience.