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A Parent’s Guide to Orthodontics in Bend: What Dr. Mingus Wants You to Know

As a parent in Bend, Oregon, taking care of your child’s teeth is a must. Your child’s oral health is critical for their overall well-being, and making sure they receive the best care is essential. In many cases, that care starts with orthodontic treatment. If you have been considering orthodontics for your child, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you are doing the right thing.

Dr. Mingus is an orthodontist in Bend who wants parents to have all the information they need to make the best decisions for their child’s oral health. In this guide, we will cover some of the most important things a parent should know about orthodontics and what Dr. Mingus wants you to be aware of as you consider orthodontic treatment for your child.

What is orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is a type of dentistry used to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. It can also be used to correct issues with an overbite, under bite, or misaligned jaws. This treatment is typically used to improve both the function and appearance of teeth. The great news for parents is that orthodontic treatment is much more advanced than it was even a few years ago. This treatment can typically be completed more quickly and with much less downtime.

When should a parent consider orthodontic treatment?

Moving on, Dr. Mingus wants parents to understand that there is no “one size fits all” answer to the question of when to consider orthodontic treatment for their child. The typical age range for orthodontic treatment can start as early as age 7 if a child is showing signs of needing treatment. That said, each child’s individual timeline is different. Dr. Mingus encourages parents to watch for signs that their child may need orthodontic treatment, such as: difficulty with biting, speech problems, thumb sucking, or crowding of the teeth. If any of these signs are present, Dr. Mingus recommends speaking with an orthodontist to see what course of treatment would be best.

What to look for in an orthodontic care provider?

Now that you know when it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment, it’s important to make sure you choose the best provider for your child’s needs. Dr. Mingus emphasizes that it is essential to choose an orthodontist who is board-certified and up-to-date on the latest orthodontic technologies and techniques. Additionally, it is important to choose an orthodontist who will personally spend time with you and your child to explain treatment options and answer any questions you may have.

More considerations for parents to be aware of when considering orthodontic treatment for their child

Dr. Mingus wants parents to keep in mind that orthodontic treatment can be a considerable financial investment. As such, it is important to find a way to pay for treatment that is best for your family. Many orthodontists offer payment plans or even offer discounts for cash payment up front. Additionally, Dr. Mingus stresses that the earlier a child begins orthodontic treatment, the better the outcome. As such, it is in a parent’s best interest to begin the conversation about orthodontics as early as possible.

Conclusion

In closing, orthodontic treatment can have a positive impact on your child’s oral health and overall well-being. When considering orthodontic treatment for your child, it’s important to be armed with all the information you need in order to make the best decision for your family. In Bend, Oregon, you can turn to Dr. Mingus for all your family’s orthodontic needs. He is a board-certified orthodontist who is passionate about providing his patient’s family with the information and personalized care they deserve.