Whether it’s the dentist, the doctor or the orthodontist, a child’s first visit to a health professional presents a new environment that some may find intimidating.
At Norwest Orthodontics we see patients as young as six who are experiencing their first interaction with the orthodontist and have designed our practice to ensure that the encounter is pleasurable, entertaining and anything but overwhelming.
That said, parents also play a vital role in ensuring their child is ready for that first orthodontist appointment, so here’s an insight into how we cater to children, along with how parents can assist in preparing their child for the orthodontist.
Our patients
At Norwest, we specialise in treating patients of all ages, with our youngest aged around six or seven years old. Seven is the age that the Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children first visit a specialist orthodontist to flag and potentially treat any problems that might emerge.
Our practice
With all ages in mind, we’ve developed a state-of-the-art practice that has all the amenities of home available. Our plush waiting room features iPads, a coral reef aquarium, video game booths and a wide-screen TV. These are available to ensure any visit to Norwest Orthodontics is a pleasurable one where young and mature patients alike can relax in comfortable, entertaining surroundings.
Our team
The Norwest team members are renowned for their professionalism, friendliness and caring nature. We work with patients of all ages on a day-to-day basis and take a personal interest in their welfare.
Our combined team has decades of experience in the orthodontic field, which means we understand how to alleviate nerves, and our aim is to ensure all our patients feel at ease.
A parent’s guide
You can learn more about what will happen during your child’s first visit to Norwest Orthodontics. but there are also a few tips to help you prepare them for the appointment.
Be open – If you’ve scheduled an appointment with the orthodontist, be open with your child about what that will involve. Depending on your child’s age and personality, you can tell them well in advance or a little before the appointment but walk them through what’s likely to occur.
At Norwest Orthodontics, the first visit involves a thorough check-up and consultation with Dr Shimanto. Getting to know one another also plays a large role in the first consultation with Dr Shimanto and the team at Norwest Orthodontics.
It’s important to remind your child that our team is friendly, we frequently work with children, and all we’re looking to do is take a look and have a chat.
Point out the benefits – There are a range of benefits to seeing an orthodontist at an early age. These include ensuring teeth are emerging in the right position, safeguarding a child’s future oral health, and setting them up for a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime. It’s worthwhile explaining this to children so they understand the role of an orthodontist, and the benefits that seeing one will offer.
Arrive a little early – Nothing increases the stress level quite so much as being pushed for time, so arrive a little early for your initial appointment. That also gives you time to relax in our comfortable surroundings and enjoy our child-friendly activities on offer. This extra time helps a child familiarise themselves with the environment.
Come and see us – It’s a great idea for you as the parent to familiarise yourself with our clinic and feel comfortable in our practice ethos and surrounds. You can take a virtual tour of our practice, meet members of our team or pop in when you schedule your first appointment to experience our difference.
Be calm yourself – Millions of Australian children see the orthodontist each year, and an early assessment or treatment is one of the best ways to alleviate the need for future work.
As a parent you should take comfort in the fact you’re doing everything you can to guarantee your child’s oral health and minimise future discomfort. Any nerves you may have will translate to your child, so be calm and confident in your decision.
Further work – If further work is required, you can rest assured Dr Shimanto will walk you and your child through the process of what happens next. We understand the first visit helps shape a child’s perception of the entire orthodontic experience, so our aim is to ensure it’s pleasurable, friendly and comfortable.
About Norwest Orthodontics
At Norwest Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on our professionalism and care when it comes to working with patients of all ages. We feature a welcoming, friendly atmosphere, state-of-the-art clinic and a range of orthodontic treatments that span from early intervention right through to remedial adult work.
You can learn more about our services, or contact us to make an appointment.
