For children and teenagers, getting braces is a significant transition. It can be difficult to adjust to new habits, rules about what you can and cannot eat, and being concerned about what your friends or classmates might say. Braces, on the other hand, are not the end of the world; they are the start of a brighter one that awaits with a wonderful smile. Here are some pointers to help your child prepare for braces:
Talk to them about your options.
You may have questions about treatment options with your orthodontist as a parent, but your child may have many more. Making a list of questions for the orthodontist is an excellent way to get them involved. There is less anxiety and worry when there are fewer unanswered questions.
Explain the Procedures to Them
It’s understandable for your child to be concerned about the big day. While applying braces takes time, it is a simple procedure. Talking about the steps with your child ahead of time can put them at ease. The brackets are glued on first, then the connecting wire and elastic bands are wrapped around the brackets. Your child can even choose the colors of the band!
The best foods are those that are soft.
Your child’s teeth will most likely be sore for the first few days. Foods that are hard or crunchy should be avoided! Foods that are soft or liquid, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, and soup, are ideal. Colder foods, such as yogurt and ice cream, are also beneficial because the cold sensation aids in pain relief.
Assist Them in Changing Their Cleaning Habits
Brushing and flossing are more difficult when you have braces on. Food loves to hide in any small space it can find, so good cleaning habits are essential. An electric toothbrush is a good place to start, and there are special brushes that can reach underneath the wires and brackets. Floss picks can also be used to reach those difficult-to-reach back teeth and protect fingers from wires or brackets.
Your orthodontic wax is your adversary.
Brackets are frequently responsible for lip irritation or sores. Another common problem is back teeth wires poking into the cheeks or lips. Orthodontic wax (also known as braces wax) is a temporary solution. Simply roll the wax (it’s very soft) between your fingers and apply it to anything that is rubbing or poking. It is usually provided for free by your orthodontist.
Concentrate on the Positives
Braces can be uncomfortable for your child, but they can also make him or her feel self-conscious. Classmates may tease or mock them, so remind them that the vast majority of their classmates wear, have worn, or will wear braces at some point in their lives. Wearing braces for a year or two may seem interminable to your child, and he or she may become impatient or frustrated with them. Encourage them to consider how much better their teeth will look after their braces have been removed. Braces are only temporary; a beautiful smile lasts forever.