Our final stop on the path to strong and healthy teeth is a conversation with Dr. Nanda from Sugarbug Orthodontics – covering all your questions about braces.
INTERVIEWER: Hi, Dr. Nanda – thanks so much for sharing your time with us! Let’s start with the basics – what’s the average age a child gets braces?
DR. NANDA: When kids come in and don’t have any major problems, meaning their jaw structure matches up, they don’t have major overbite, and there isn’t severe crowding, then we usually recommend their first orthodontic consultation at eight years old. There are however things we can do for younger children who have larger issues to improve the structure and fit of the teeth.
INTERVIEWER: What if my child is scared to go to the orthodontist?
DR. NANDA: We often forget how intelligent kids are. Kids are usually afraid of what they don’t understand. Most orthodontic treatment procedures are not painful. I explain to kids that getting braces is like having stickers placed on their teeth, and that they can even pick the color they like and get fancy wires. I also emphasize to the child that braces are not painful, but that it’s possible they’ll feel pressure in their teeth as those teeth begin to move into a pretty smile. Once I explain what’s happening, it’s a lot less scary to the child.
INTERVIEWER: Yes, knowledge is power! Have you ever seen someone with teeth you can’t fix?
DR. NANDA: Some people come in with straightforward cases, and others come in with complicated cases. But there’s never been a case where we can’t help that patient. We have systematic ways to approach every patient and we can definitely help anyone who is interested in getting braces to straighten their teeth.
INTERVIEWER: Phew, that’s a relief! Did you have braces?
DR. NANDA: Yes, I did. I had braces from when I was 11 to about 14 years old. Actually, my mom was my orthodontist. So, as you can imagine, I didn’t listen to her well. Because of that I currently have braces again! This time I am going to make sure I wear my retainers and cooperate with my treatment.
INTERVIEWER: You’re never too old for braces! Well, Dr. Nanda, thank you so much for chatting with us.
DR. NANDA: Of course!