Straight Teeth in Less Time
5 Ways To Help Your Child Get Used To Braces
Lois Murray
Whether it is to correct misshapen teeth or a bad bite, many kids get braces at some point. If your child is about to get braces soon, however, they may feel nervous. Braces definitely take some getting used to. As a parent, you can take steps to help your child feel more comfortable with them.
Here are some useful tips to help your child become accustomed to braces.
Discuss Braces with Your Child Ahead of Time
Braces are not something you want to surprise your child with at the last moment. Discuss the subject with your child long before you step foot into an orthodontist's office. Explain what is involved with getting braces and the benefits of having them. Then, you should allow your child to voice their questions and concerns.
Encourage Them to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing becomes more difficult and tedious for people with braces. That is why you must stay on top of your child's oral hygiene routine and purchase special brushes to clean between the wires. Let your child know that proper brushing will prevent cavities and other oral health issues.
Purchase Orthodontic Wax
When your child is first getting adjusted to braces, they may experience mild irritation. To alleviate your child's discomfort, apply orthodontic wax to the brackets.
Keep Softs Foods in the House
One of the most difficult parts about getting braces is not being able to eat certain foods. Your child will have to give up popcorn, nuts, pretzels, and other hard and chewy foods. To make the adjustment easier, always have soft foods stocked in the kitchen, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and pasta.
Remind Your Child to Focus on the Future
Many children have to wear braces for at least two years. While two years might not seem like much to an adult, it can seem like a lifetime for a child. Your child may constantly ask you when the braces will finally come off.
Reassure your child that the results will be well worth it in the end. Encourage your child to be patient and think about the bigger picture.
Adjusting to braces may not be easy for your child at first. However, if you follow these tips, you can make the process more tolerable for them. If you or your child have additional questions, consult with a local orthodontist to go over the procedure and process involved.
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I had braces when I was a kid. Back then, you had to wear those metal wires and rubber bands for what seemed like forever. When I saw that my child’s teeth were going to be crooked like mine, I was dreading the years of braces and orthodontist appointments and limited diets that I saw stretching ahead of us. I was pleased to find out that braces today are very different from braces when I was a kid. They don’t need to be worn for nearly as long, and they aren’t as intrusive, either. My daughter got braces that can barely be seen, and she can remove them when she eats, so she doesn’t have to give up her favorite foods. I was so impressed that I started a blog to talk about modern day tooth straightening techniques. Braces have come a long way.