How Your Orthodontist Works with Your Child's Dentist

Planning for your child's future health can be a daunting task, especially when you start orthodontic treatment. There are unexpected bills and decisions you need to make. Luckily your dentist and orthodontist can help you navigate these decisions.

Both play an essential role in your child's health. Your child's general dentist focuses on overall care, including cleanings, fillings, and regular checkups, while the orthodontist focuses on how the teeth are aligning and how the bite fits. When these two professionals work together, your child benefits from a faster, safer, and more effective smile transformation.

Phase 1: The Initial Assessment and Referral — The Hand-Off

Your child's dentist is often the first to spot early signs that orthodontic treatment may be needed. During routine checkups, they use X-rays and growth charts to monitor how your child's teeth and jaws are developing.

If any of these signs appear, your dentist may recommend a first visit to the orthodontist, usually around age seven. Even if braces aren't needed yet, early monitoring helps determine the best time to begin treatment.

To make the process seamless, the dentist shares important records such as X-rays, growth data, and dental history directly with the orthodontist. At Bamboo Dental, this coordination happens in-house, allowing our dental team in Richmond Hill to communicate instantly and create a clear, personalized plan for your child.

Phase 2: Pre-Treatment Preparation — The Clearance

Before braces or aligners are placed, your child's orthodontist requires "dental clearance" from the dentist. This confirms that the mouth is healthy, with no cavities, gum disease, or other issues that could interfere with orthodontic care.

If the dentist finds any problems, such as cavities or decayed baby teeth, those are treated first. This step is crucial because once braces are on, it becomes harder to access certain areas for dental work.

In cases of severe crowding, the orthodontist might recommend removing a few teeth to create space. The dentist either performs these extractions or coordinates them based on the orthodontist's plan. Having both professionals in one Richmond Hill location makes this step simple and stress-free for parents.

Phase 3: Maintenance During Treatment — The Check-Ins

Once braces are on, the dentist's role becomes even more important. Braces make it easier for plaque and food particles to hide, so regular dental cleanings (every 3–4 months) help prevent gum inflammation, cavities, and white spots on the teeth.

If one notice an issue, for example a damaged bracket or a cavity near a wire, they communicate to make sure it's addressed quickly and properly. Our in-house communication means your child's dental and orthodontic care stays perfectly aligned without the need to juggle multiple offices.

Phase 4: Retention and Long-Term Health — The Finish Line

When the braces come off, the dentist performs a thorough cleaning to remove any bonding material left behind and polishes the teeth for that post-braces shine.

The orthodontist provides a custom retainer to keep the new smile in place, while the dentist monitors it during regular checkups. If the retainer becomes damaged or no longer fits properly, the dentist alerts the orthodontist so adjustments can be made.

With both a dentist and orthodontist available at Bamboo Dental in Richmond Hill, you can feel confident knowing your child's smile will continue to be cared for by the same trusted team from start to finish.