As with many health providers, orthodontists can be a source of anxiety for some people.

Whether it’s down to legitimate concerns about possibly uncomfortable or even painful procedures – or simply fear of the unknown – children’s fears can make it difficult to keep appointments. 

Early orthodontic intervention, particularly in patients with complex bite issues, can begin even before permanent teeth erupt. Addressing issues such as crowding, palate size, or other jaw issues as part of a phased treatment approach may simplify later treatments when permanent teeth come in. 

But the fact is, early orthodontic intervention can have a significant positive impact on overall dental health and can also help minimize future treatment requirements. 

With those potential benefits in mind, it’s important to help children work through any fears and help make them feel comfortable with their orthodontist and the procedures they can expect. 

Kids being afraid of the orthodontist is normal. They may have heard scary stories or are unsure of what their life will be after their visit. Their fear of the orthodontist shouldn’t stop them from making and going to their appointments as oral health is important for overall health. Luckily, there are ways to help soothe their fears.

Acknowledge Their Fears

This is a critical first step. Most children will have heard horror stories from friends or older siblings about painful appointments or the difficult aftermath of a procedure. The best way to work through anxieties stemming from these misunderstandings is to hear them out. Recognize and acknowledge that there may be some discomfort during or following appointments, but reinforce that pain is very unlikely. Be honest with them as you explain the process, while also keeping their fears in mind.

Treatment Consultation

Scheduling a consultation before beginning orthodontic treatment is our standard practice. It gives you an opportunity to ask questions and understand what to expect, both from a treatment and a financial perspective. With an apprehensive patient, it’s important to include him or her in that consultation, so they can meet the team and ask questions of their own.

If treatment is recommended, that meeting will also include a review of the step-by-step process for each visit from start to finish. It can also be a good time for your child to share any concerns about how he or she will look with braces and discuss the possibility of clear brackets or Invisalign Teen as alternatives.  

Keep a Calendar of Upcoming Appointments

A key part of managing anxiety is a sense of personal control. When your child knows when to expect appointments – as well as what to expect at each visit – they have the opportunity to prepare themselves. Offering a few days’ notice can also be helpful, so they can ask – and you may be able to address – any questions or concerns they have ahead of time. 

Choose a Kid-Friendly Orthodontist

Treating pre-teen patients requires a special team that understands and works well with children. The team at OrthoSouth – including Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed – enjoy working with young patients and make a point to see that they are comfortable for each stage of treatment.



If you're in the Pelham, Helena, Alabaster, Calera, or the Oak Mountain areas and want to look into braces or Invisalign for your child, talk to the team at OrthoSouth about scheduling a consultation. They can quickly evaluate your current situation, share your options for the next steps, and recommend possible treatment so you can start planning a healthy, beautiful smile.

Regardless of age, there are orthodontic treatment options available for kids to help achieve almost any treatment goal. In fact, many orthodontic problems may be easier, less painful, and less expensive to correct if they are found and treated early. It’s definitely worth the effort to help your apprehensive patient manage their possible anxiety and start treatment as early as possible. 

Contact our team of friendly smile pros today by clicking here today to schedule a consultation.