Written by: TFVstaff • July 2, 2018• Dental Health

Straight Talk: July Edition

School is out for the summer- a time when many of us enjoy traveling, the beach, camp, and catching up on rest. Summer break also happens to be one of the most ideal times to begin orthodontic treatment. Why is summertime is a great time to start orthodontic treatment? Let’s explore the reasons:

Better for appointments

Since the initial visits and placement of orthodontic appliances are typically lengthier appointments, summer is a great time to start so that kids will not have to miss any school. This is probably the main reason starting orthodontics in the summer is desirable. While most schools are very accommodating when it comes to appointments with the orthodontist, it is can be a problem for certain classes or when multiple appointments may be necessary. Being able to begin orthodontic treatment without the worry of missing school is a great benefit.

Easier to get in for appointments

During the school year, orthodontists can typically be overwhelmed with appointments at certain times of the day, making it more difficult to begin treatment. This is especially common if appointments are desired after school. During the summer, however, there is generally more appointment time availability because many patients may be traveling or on vacation. Summer appointment times are more flexible.

Time to get adjusted

There is always going to be an adjustment period when braces or orthodontic appliances are placed. While braces are not painful, the mouth does require time to get used to having something new in it. Going through this adjustment phase during the school year can make getting braces a bit more stressful. During the summer, however, kids have more time to master the initial adjustment issues without also having to worry about school responsibilities or extracurricular activities.

More time to pay attention to oral hygiene

Having braces means spending more time on the oral hygiene routine (that is, keeping the mouth clean). Another benefit to getting braces during the summer is that it allows for the extra time necessary to become an expert on the brushing and flossing routine before schools starts. There is also more freedom to brush and clean one’s teeth and braces throughout the day during the summer, something that may not be as easy during the school year.

While there are many benefits to starting orthodontic treatment during the summer, I do caution parents not to have braces placed on their children’s teeth immediately before going on a trip or sending them out of town to camp. No one wants to be uncomfortable while on vacation, or tracking down an orthodontist in an unfamiliar area to fix something that has become loose or broken.

Orthodontic treatment is about creating a healthy bite, teeth and mouth, and of course a beautiful smile. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be evaluated by an orthodontist by age seven to determine if early treatment is necessary. Summer is a great time for these evaluations and also an ideal time to start orthodontic treatment if it is deemed necessary. School will start again before we know it, so please call Pinecrest Orthodontics at 305-423-4130 for your initial complimentary orthodontic consultation!

Dr. Rothman is the owner and orthodontist at Pinecrest Orthodontics, located in the Dixie Belle Shops at 12197 S. Dixie Highway in Pinecrest, FL. PH: 305.423.4130 pinecrestortho.com. Please email Dr. Rothman with your orthodontic questions at drrothman@pinecrestortho.com.

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