As the school year comes to an end and children begin their summer vacation, it’s a good idea to schedule an orthodontic exam for children age 7 and up.  The scheduling flexibility of summer makes it one of the most convenient times of year for children to start their orthodontic treatment with braces.  The break from school allows children time to get comfortable with having their braces on and the new routines associated with them.  Depending on which type of braces are chosen, some of your child’s eating and flossing habits will need to change.  They will also need monthly follow-up appointments for adjustments with traditional braces.  If clear aligners such as Invisalign® Teen are chosen, compliance is key to getting a great result.   Aligners must be worn 22 hours per day and only be taken out when eating and for brushing and flossing.  Remembering to change aligners weekly is also a crucial step to achieving a beautiful smile.  Whichever option you and your child choose will lead to a fantastic result as long as proper instructions are followed.  A few months in the summer is a perfect adjustment period that will lead to a lifetime benefit of a healthy, beautiful smile!