At Kurt Kavanaugh Orthodontics, we have years of experience working with children in Kansas City, Sedalia, and the surrounding areas. Whether your child needs an early evaluation or it’s time for a routine appointment for their braces, we’ve developed the skills and knowledge to make almost every visit to our office a pleasant experience for all involved. As a parent, though, there are things you can do to help – so here are our biggest tips for making sure your next visit with us is tear-free and full of smiles!
Talk (and Listen!)
One of the biggest things you can do to help prepare your child for the orthodontist’s office is to talk honestly with them about their feelings surrounding the visit. If they express anxiety, fear, or uncertainty, listen closely to try to understand where they’re coming from. By encouraging them to express their feelings, you can help them work through any anxiety and reassure them that the orthodontist’s office is a safe, welcoming space.
Make A Routine
If your child is receiving early orthodontic treatment, then proper orthodontic and dental care doesn’t just happen inside the office. Helping your child see and familiarize themselves with it can help them adjust to an orthodontic visit. Make a routine with your child of brushing, flossing, and taking care of their orthodontic appliances every night, and use that time to explain how important dental health is for both their smile and their overall well-being. By making oral hygiene & health a regular part of home life, you’ll help them get familiar and feel comfortable with orthodontics in general.
Contact Your Kansas City Children’s Orthodontist
Have more questions about getting your child ready for an early evaluation or their next routine visit? We’re always happy to answer them. Feel free to our Kansas City office at (816) 420-8100 or our Sedalia office at (660) 829-2900. You may also use our easy online form to schedule an appointment at either of our offices. We can’t wait to hear from you, and we hope to see you back at this blog for more tips and information on achieving and maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile for both you and your child!