Preparing Your Child for Their First Braces Appointment
About one third of all children have a demonstrable need for orthodontic treatment, and a further third are borderline cases, but the idea of starting orthodontic treatment can still feel like a big step for both you and your child.
The first appointment marks the start of your child’s journey towards a healthier, straighter smile, but we understand that many children and parents might feel nervous about it. Knowing what to expect and the right preparation can help reduce anxiety and make the process smoother.
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In this article, we will go through:
- Why the first appointment matters
- What to bring to the first appointment
- Before the appointment
- During the appointment
- After the appointment
- Frequently asked questions
What Age Do Kids Get Braces?
This is a very popular question amongst parents and children and the answer is that there is no “right age”. Most children start orthodontic treatment between the ages of 10 and 14. The timing depends on how many baby teeth they still have and how urgent their treatment needs are. Some children may need earlier intervention, while others can wait longer. Your child’s orthodontist will advise whether now is a good time or whether monitoring is more appropriate for now.
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Why the First Orthodontic Appointment Matters
Your child’s first orthodontic consultation is an important step in their journey to a healthier, straighter smile. During this appointment, the orthodontist will assess whether braces are needed and discuss the treatment options that are best suited to your child, as every case is unique.
It’s also a valuable chance for you and your child to understand what the process involves, ask questions, and feel confident about the next steps. Being informed from the start can help reduce nerves and set the stage for a positive experience.
What to Bring to Your Child's First Orthodontist Appointment
Being prepared helps make your child’s first orthodontic visit stress-free and smooth. Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:
- NHS or private dental card/details – Bring your NHS number or private insurance information if relevant.
- Dental records or X-rays – Any recent dental history can help the orthodontist plan treatment.
- List of questions – Jot down concerns your child or you might have about braces.
- Medical history – Include allergies, medications, or any ongoing health conditions.
- Payment method – If your practice charges a consultation fee or deposit.
- A comfort item for your child – A favourite small toy, book, or comfort item can help ease nerves.
- Water bottle or light snack – Handy if there’s a wait or travel involved.
Tip: Being organised with these items can make the appointment feel calm and reassuring for both you and your child.
Before the Appointment
Set clear expectations early
Before your child’s first orthodontic appointment, it’s important to explain what will happen and why. Use age-appropriate language to help them understand that getting braces is a positive and temporary step toward a healthy smile.
You can also reassure your child by letting them know that many kids their age either have braces already or will get them at some point. This helps normalise the experience and reduce feelings of anxiety or embarrassment.
Encourage Open Communication
Invite your child to ask questions about the process and express how they’re feeling. This helps them feel heard and supported. By discussing their concerns openly, you can make the experience less overwhelming and more collaborative.
Prepare a List of Questions Together
Creating a list of questions to bring to the appointment helps your child feel involved and empowered. It also ensures you don’t forget to address important concerns during the visit.
Here are some examples of helpful questions to consider:
- How long will I have the braces on for?
- What do braces feel like?
- Will it hurt?
- What food can I eat with my braces on?
- How do I brush my teeth with braces on?
- How long does it take to put braces on?
- How long does brace tightening pain last?
If you want to know some of the answers beforehand, we have added the answers to these questions at the end of this article.
During the Appointment
Knowing what will happen at their first orthodontist appointment can help ease a child’s nerves and allow them to come prepared for what will happen:
- Initial welcome and introductions: Your orthodontist will explain what will happen during your appointment.
- Examination and records: The orthodontist will check your child’s teeth, jaw alignment and bite, and they may also take photos, x-rays or scans to help them plan treatment.
- Discussion of treatment options: You will then learn whether it is recommended that your child have braces now or later down the line. The orthodontist will also talk through types of braces for kids, the benefits of each one and what they would recommend to help you determine the right course of treatment.
- Timeline and costs: This will also be the time to discuss how long treatment will take and how many appointments will be expected throughout the process. They will also discuss costs with you and the interest-free payment options available.
- Questions and reassurance: One of the aims of the first appointment is to ensure that you leave your first appointment feeling informed and reassured, so if you do have questions, you will always be encouraged to ask them.
After the Appointment
Check In With Your Child
After the first orthodontic visit, take some time to talk to your child about how they’re feeling. They may feel excited and reassured about starting their journey to straighter teeth—or they may still have some nerves.
Address Common Anxieties
Some worries are normal, including:
- How the braces will look
- Whether they will feel uncomfortable
- Adjusting to new routines like brushing and eating
Keep the Conversation Positive
Stay upbeat and supportive. Remind your child that braces are a temporary step toward a healthy, confident smile. Encouragement and reassurance can make the transition easier and help your child feel positive about the journey ahead.
How to Convince Your Teen to Get Braces
Getting teenagers on board with braces can sometimes be a challenge. While parents understand the health and cosmetic benefits, teens may worry about appearance, discomfort or fitting in at school. The key is to approach the conversation with empathy and positivity, showing them that braces are a short-term commitment with life-long rewards. Below are some practical strategies for how to convince your teen to get braces and help them feel more in control of the process.
- Involve them in the decision-making with colours, custom choices or deciding which braces would work best for them
- Offer small incentives along the way to help celebrate each milestone during the treatment process
- Highlight peer experiences: Hearing from friends or family members who are also getting braces can help normalise it
- Use relatable examples: Have a look at celebrities or influencers who have gone through orthodontic treatment
- Visual encouragement: Show your teen ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures of people of a similar age to them to demonstrate how good the results can be
Ready to Book Your First Orthodontic Appointment?
Preparing your child for their first orthodontic appointment is all about communication, reassurance and setting realistic expectations. Whilst it is normal to have some nerves, proper care and support can make the process easier for your child and you as their parent.
Accessible Orthodontics is a trusted practice that specialises in braces for children, with caring staff and full support for families. Contact us today and start your child’s journey to a straighter, more confident smile.
Common Braces Questions Kids (and Parents!) Ask
How long will I need to wear braces?
Most kids wear braces for 1 to 3 years, depending on how much their teeth need to move.
What do braces feel like?
At first, they might feel a little strange or tight, but you’ll get used to them in a few days.
Will it hurt to get braces put on or tightened?
Getting braces put on doesn’t hurt, but your teeth might feel sore for a couple of days after adjustments. Learn how to comfort your child suffering from brace pain
What foods should I avoid while wearing braces?
Stay away from hard, sticky, or chewy foods like popcorn, gum, and caramel to prevent damage.
How do I brush and floss with braces on?
Brush carefully after every meal and use a floss threader or special tool to clean between the wires.
How long does it take to put braces on?
Usually about 1 to 2 hours, and you can relax while it’s being done.
How long does tightening pain usually last?
Any soreness usually goes away in 2 to 3 days, and eating soft foods can help in the meantime.
