It’s not always an easy role as a parent when your child needs orthodontic treatment. Your experience, as well as theirs, largely depends on the practice you choose. We have some encouraging news, though: It doesn’t get much better than Moon Orthodontics. Our team will be going over how to prepare your child for their first orthodontic visit.
Setting the Stage
Many parents are curious about what steps they can take to prepare their kids for the orthodontist’s office ahead of an initial appointment. Every child is different, of course—and at the end of the day, you know your child best. Here are a few of the ways Dr. Moon might suggest getting them acclimated:
- Focus on Education: We recommend describing orthodontics in simple terms, such as explaining how it makes teeth healthier and smiles straighter. You can describe Dr. Moon as a “super dentist” who is focused on teeth alignment.
- Highlight Positives: Really do your best to hone in on the benefits of orthodontic treatment. You can do this by showing them before-and-after photos to highlight the end results and the advantages of having a better smile.
- Discuss Expectations: Explain to your child that the first visit to our office is just a consultation and nothing to be afraid of! Our team will look at their teeth and possibly take x-rays or digital scans. Remind them that there will be no procedures to ease any anxiety they might be feeling.
- Highlight Technology: Let your child know that our practice uses special high-tech tools to make their experience the best it can be! For example, we can do scans of their entire mouth digitally, and even use 3D printing to take impressions.
- Read Books and Watch Videos: Certain educational formats can be better for certain children. Most kids love visual media for learning, and there are many books and videos available that can educate them on orthodontics in a fun, engaging way.
- Visit Our Office Ahead of Time: You’re always welcome to take a trip to our office before your child’s first appointment. This way, they can familiarize themselves with our office environment and meet members of the team.
- Welcome Questions: If your child is particularly inquisitive, encourage them to bring some questions with them to ask Dr. Moon when they visit.
Dr. Moon is determined to know every one of his patients and to connect and communicate with them across all age groups. He is passionate about lending his time to families before, during, and after treatment—a dedication that sets him apart from other providers. We know it’s a difference your child will be able to feel from the first consultation.
Other Tips and Tools
Sometimes, you may need to get a bit creative when it comes to preparing your kids for meeting a new doctor and visiting a new office. There are plenty of ideas and resources for parents in this capacity. Try searching for parenting blogs or vlogs who have experienced this, or reach out directly to your fellow parents of orthodontic patients.
- Utilize Comfort Items: Many kids have a toy, blanket, or other object that they associate with comfort. You are welcome to bring these items with you when you visit Moon Orthodontics. It helps them feel much more secure in our environment. Ask us about other accommodations we can make for your child while they’re with us.
- Role Play at Home: You might consider letting your child play with dentist-themed toys or letting them sit in the “dentist chair” at home and play the “orthodontist.” These efforts can help children associate fun and familiarity with the orthodontist’s office.
- Keep a Positive Attitude: Your children, particularly young children, largely mirror your own attitude and feelings. For this reason, try to remain optimistic and happy throughout the experience, both before and during your first appointment with Dr. Moon. When they see you are comfortable in this space, they are more likely to be, too.
- Practice Calming Techniques: If you think it may help, consider practicing relaxing techniques at home for them to use in our office, like simple breathing exercises to help calm them down if they get nervous.
- Praise Their Bravery: It’s no small feat for kids to overcome their fear. Let them know when they’ve done a good job along the way, such as Great job sitting still for Dr. Moon! You did amazing! Our team will join you in this manner of encouragement.
- Create a Fun Tradition: You can control what happens after an appointment. Consider a fun post-appointment ritual after you leave our office, like a trip to the park, a little treat, or tablet/movie time. It makes the visit one step in a longer, more positive experience. Remind them of this result if they’re having trouble during their visit.
A Team Effort
We want to encourage the families of Moon Orthodontics that, above all else, it will be okay! Even if there are some challenges or obstacles along the way, we have so many incredible success stories of kids who have completed orthodontic treatment with us. Our teams in Overland Park and Olathe look forward to welcoming you and your children soon!