Getting braces can be a daunting experience for a child. Having to undergo a major long-term process may bring up a lot of questions in your mind as well as theirs. But you as a parent can help your child who is undergoing dental braces treatment by making some accommodations in your household incorporating some changes, and helping them adapt to the process. In this article, we shall be discussing some helpful tips for kids with braces, and how you as a parent can help them.
Taking care of kids with braces is an added effort but it is a part and parcel of parenthood. By following these helpful tips, you can help make your child’s journey through braces treatment a smooth one, and help them adapt to the process.
1. Discuss treatment options with your child: Always have an open discussion with your child about why they need braces, different types of braces, how a dental braces treatment will be beneficial to them, and why they even need braces in the first place. Making your children involved in the decision-making process will help them get more acclimatized with the ideas and make them feel more comfortable about their treatment plans.
2. Encourage regular brushing and flossing: Instill a dedicated routine of flossing and brushing regularly after every meal to ensure that your children take care of their braces properly. Make brushing a game by getting your child an electric toothbrush and ensure that they understand the importance of brushing properly.
3. Get the right foods for braces: Just because your kid has braces, doesn’t mean they cannot eat properly! Soft foods are the best solution for children with braces, as their mouth and jaw will be tender and a little sore at the beginning of the treatment, and hard or crunchy foods could damage the braces brackets permanently. The best options for a kid with braces include grains, soft cooked veggies, and soft fruits. Options for a varied diet can include lean meat, tofu, yogurt, and milk. You would be best advised to avoid nuts, seeds, hard fruit or vegetables, and especially candy.
4. Have plenty of orthodontic wax on hand: Orthodontic wax, or dental wax, is the best weapon you and your child can have in your arsenal when your child undergoes a braces treatment. Dental wax forms a protective layer over the areas of the braces that are sharp or can cause sores. Your orthodontist will provide this wax to you free of charge.
5. Focus on the benefits of braces: Make sure that you make your child understand the importance of why they are undergoing this treatment. While a year may not seem like that long of a period for adults, it may seem like centuries to your child. Make sure you explain the long-term benefits of permanently fixing their teeth malocclusions, and why it will help boost their confidence and self-image in the long term.
6. Take your child to see the dentist regularly: Even if you visit your orthodontist regularly for checking and fittings, ensure that you also visit your regular dentist every 4-6 months for thorough teeth cleaning and checkups. These dental cleanings will help ensure that the hard-to-reach areas are free of cavities and your child does not develop any other dental issues while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Taking care of kids with braces is an added effort but it is a part and parcel of parenthood. By following these helpful tips, you can help make your child’s journey through braces treatment a smooth one, and help them adapt to the process.
Author Bio:
Dr. Patel is an orthodontist and maintains a private practice in Rome, NY. He completed his undergraduate education at the Ohio State University. Then, he earned his Doctorate in Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia. After earning his doctorate, Dr. Patel attended a three-year, dual-degree residency at Columbia University in New York City. Here, he earned his certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics as well as earning a Masters in Oral Biology. During his time off, Dr. Patel likes to stay active by jogging, biking, and hiking. |
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