Spending around an hour at the orthodontist every couple of months adds up quickly. By my calculations, I’ll be here for roughly 72 hours by the time my youngest finishes their treatment. Yet, each visit is filled with the same recurring thoughts that plague my mind.
- Did I remember to say I’m sorry for being late? Again?
- They explained everything, but does my child truly need all this gear? I thought their teeth looked perfectly fine.
- Cookies? Shouldn’t orthodontists offer cookies? I wonder if they’ll ever have a frozen yogurt station like my friend’s orthodontist does?
- My previous orthodontist was so harsh, and my teeth reverted to my pre-headgear overbite. I hope that doesn’t happen here.
- I really appreciate this orthodontist. I feel like I can trust him.
- Why is everyone here smiling so much? Is there nitrous oxide involved? Can I get some if there is?
- What kind of genetic twist means all three of my kids need braces while my sister’s children do not?
- Is it unreasonable to want my son’s braces off for his bar mitzvah? It sounds crazy, but think of all the photos!
- Am I going to need a better job just to afford these orthodontic expenses?
- Honestly, I love this orthodontist. He just took five minutes to explain to my son why wearing his retainer is important, without any yelling or threats.
- Those before-and-after photos are so impressive. Should I consider getting Invisalign?
- It looks more appealing than a facelift. Maybe I should think about it once my youngest is done…
- I’m really going to miss this place.
I know I’m not the only mom anxiously waiting while my kids undergo orthodontic treatment. Braces have become a rite of passage for many teenagers—according to the American Association of Orthodontists, around 4.5 million adolescents received orthodontic care in 2012.
At least I can rest easy knowing my child won’t be taking the DIY route to orthodontics. This growing trend of individuals seeking advice from dubious websites to modify their teeth is more than a little concerning.
That’s parenting for you: safeguarding our children’s smiles since the ’70s, all while enduring the tedium and costs. For more insights into parenting journeys, you can check out our post on the at-home insemination kit. If you’re interested in further details about pregnancy and home insemination, this resource from the CDC is very informative. For a stress-free journey to baby-making, Intracervical Insemination is a great authority to consult.
Summary:
This article humorously captures the myriad thoughts that occupy a mom’s mind during trips to the orthodontist. From concerns about timing to reflections on the orthodontist’s approach, it highlights the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies parenting and orthodontic treatment.