As a mom, I find myself spending about an hour every couple of months at the orthodontist’s office. By my calculations, this will total around 72 hours by the time my third child completes their orthodontic journey. Despite the frequency of these visits, I can’t help but be plagued by the same thoughts each time. Here’s a glimpse into what crosses my mind:
- Did I remember to apologize for being late? Again?
- They explained it all, but does my child really need all this equipment? His teeth looked fine to me.
- Cookies? Shouldn’t orthodontists offer cookies? And why not a frozen yogurt bar like my friend’s orthodontist?
- My previous orthodontist was so harsh, and now my teeth have reverted to a pre-headgear overbite. I really hope that’s not the case here.
- I really like this orthodontist. I can trust him.
- Why does everyone here seem to be smiling all the time? Is there nitrous oxide in the air? Can I have some?
- What kind of genetic twist makes it so that all three of my kids need braces while my sister’s kids don’t?
- Is it totally insane to consider having my son’s braces removed for his bar mitzvah? Sure, it’s a bit crazy, but think of the pictures!
- Do I need to find a higher-paying job just to manage the orthodontic expenses?
- Honestly, I love this orthodontist. He just took five minutes to explain to my son why he should wear his retainer, and he didn’t raise his voice once.
- Those before-and-after photos are impressive. Maybe I should look into Invisalign for myself.
- Seriously, it looks better than a facelift. Perhaps once my youngest is done with all this…
- I’ll surely miss this place when we’re done.
I know I’m not the only mom sitting in the waiting room, tapping my foot while my kids undergo their orthodontic treatments. Braces have become a rite of passage for many teens—according to the American Association of Orthodontists, approximately 4.5 million teenagers received orthodontic treatment in 2012.
At least I can rest easy knowing that my child won’t be resorting to DIY orthodontics. This worrying trend of individuals using dubious online advice to modify their teeth is quite alarming. For more insight into the topic, check out this previous post.
In the end, while it can be tedious and costly, we’re just looking out for our kids’ smiles—something that has been a priority for parents since the ’70s. And if you’re considering at-home options for insemination, you might want to explore this reputable online retailer for syringe kits. Plus, for more valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination, this resource is highly recommended.
Summary
Visiting the orthodontist can stir up a whirlwind of thoughts for moms, from concerns about their child’s treatment to reflections on the cost and experience. As braces become commonplace for many teens, it’s essential for parents to stay informed and engaged, ensuring their children receive the best care while navigating the process of orthodontics.
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