Winter break is an ideal time to consider starting orthodontic treatment for your kids or teens with Art of Smile Philadelphia. It offers numerous benefits to kids & teens, allowing them to make a comfortable adjustment to the treatment without interfering too much with their daily lifestyle.
Choosing winter for your kids’ orthodontic treatments will not only provide psychological relief, but it also offers some monetary benefits.
Why Start Orthodontic Treatment for Kids In Winter
Here we are discussing some of the major advantages that make winters the most suitable for kids & teens to start their orthodontic treatment.
They Get Ample Time for Treatment Adjustments.
The starting phase for winter break Orthodontic treatments like traditional braces, brackets, and aligners etc, are considered most challenging. Kids & teens have to beat difficulties like irritation inside the mouth, discomfort in their daily life routine. As winters are the holiday period, people are relaxed and get enough time to cope with these changes.
As there would be no homework, tests, or other activities, your kids can enjoy their comfort space at home, and as a parent, you can provide them with healthy food that will help them recover faster.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA ) Benefits
Starting your kids’ orthodontic treatment phase 1 at the start of the new year will grab FSA benefits, as most dental insurance plans reset their annual maximums generally on 1st January.
If you choose to start orthodontic treatment at the end of December or the start of January, this move will allow you to maximize your coverage for the initial downpayment and further monthly visits. You must ask about the benefits from your orthodontist.
If you are left with funds in your FSA accounts you can make use of them to cover an initial consultation.
Building Confidence with Orthodontic Appliances
Teens & kids are sensitive about their appearance. During the break time, they will get time to be comfortable with their new look, and they will develop new habits, till they get back to school again.
During the breaks, they will practice speaking and smiling with the new change. They will get used to it, and when they are in the groups, there won’t be any feeling of awkwardness. In short, there won’t be any effect on their self-esteem.
Mastering Oral Hygiene Regime
The other advantage is oral hygiene maintenance, at home, they will learn to brush and floss with the appliance, and will be more aware of their new eating habits.
During the breaks, there won’t be any rush to catch the bus; they can take enough time to ensure every bracket is spotless, and there is no area inside their mouth for plaque buildup. In this time period, they can pay their full attention to their treatment requirements besides juggling with other school activities.
Winters will not only be a relaxing time for kids but also for their parents also, they can take care of their kids without leaving any chances for carelessness.
More Flexible Scheduling with your Orthodontist
As your teens and kids go to school, you can’t spare flexible time for appointments. But when there are breaks, you can maintain appointment flexibility. Your kids are not required to miss their classes.
In case your kid finds any discomfort with the appliances like loose braces, or any accident. You can immediately go back to the professional without disturbing their school life activities.
Tips to Start Orthodontic Treatments in Winters
If you are starting dental treatment for your kids in December, make sure to consider these small tips.
- Keep your Child Hydrated
Indoor heating in winter can cause dry mouth, which causes the brackets to be more abrasive against the cheeks. The easy solution for this problem is to keep your child hydrated. Ensure he/she takes enough water. Make sure to use lukewarm water. - Make Use of Warmth Therapy
New winter braces cause your child’s teeth to move, which will make their teeth sensitive to cold. Encourage your kid to breathe through the nose and avoid outdoor cold shots. You can make his/her mouth with a scarf or mask. - Maintain a Robust Oral Hygiene Routine
Oral Hygiene is the key to getting desired outcomes. You must keep a close eye on your kid’s oral hygiene routine. Make sure to brush their teeth properly for 2 minutes. Make them brush immediately after they wake up. Make use of sensitive or high fluoride toothpaste, which will help to soothe the nerves and pressure on them.
Apart from this, ensure your kids floss. Apart from teeth care, lip care is also important, as braces can stretch your kid’s lip, make sure to use lip balm to prevent cracking at the corners of the mouth. - Be Mindful About Food
When your kid is on a treatment journey, make sure to choose the right kind of food with a soft texture. Make sure to avoid hard foods. Make sure he/she eats soft food items. You can ask your orthodontist about the food list that will help your kid recover faster.
Final Thoughts
Starting orthodontic treatment for your kids in winter is a smart move. Choosing this time period means providing your child with time, comfort, and confidence. It is not only a good time for your kids, but it would be great for your pocket, too. If you are willing to start, you can contact Kanchi Shah, our expert Philadelphia orthodontist in the field.
FAQ’s
Why are winter breaks better than summer breaks for orthodontic treatment for kids?
Although both the winter and summer breaks provide time off, winters are preferred because the insurance benefits reset.
What is the best time to get orthodontic treatment for kids?
Typical age for full braces is from 11 to 14. But the best age depends on your child’s dental development. The first consultation should be scheduled at age 7 to evaluate proper growth and development of jaws and teeth.
Can I use my 2025 FSA funds if the treatment continues into 2026?
Yes! Most orthodontists may allow you to pay the initial fee in late December using your leftover funds.
