How to Support Your Child with New Braces

Though it comes with endless benefits to one’s quality of life, getting braces is definitely something both kids and their parents need to adjust to. It’s quite reasonable to be worried about their new braces and the lifestyle adjustments they may bring. Investing in orthodontic treatment for your kid now is guaranteed to pay off later in their life, but for now, you need to learn how to deal with both their emotional and physical needs. Here are some tips on how to help your kid get used to braces as quickly and effortlessly as possible.

Make sure they brush their teeth

Braces can make it easier for food to fall into little crevices while also making it harder to properly brush. Improperly brushed teeth often lead to cavities which is why it’s crucial to make sure your child takes care of their teeth after every meal. Urge them to brush their teeth at least three times a day, using a soft toothbrush, toothpaste, and water. Children who are resistant to brushing their teeth may be persuaded to do so if you remind them that if they don’t, the longer their braces will need to be on. Using a proper brushing technique will ensure teeth remain healthy under the braces and it might even shorten the amount of time of wear.

Flossing is key

Apart from brushing, in order for your kid to have adequate dental hygiene, they need to floss regularly too. Flossing can be quite tough when teeth are covered with metal, so make sure to help them if there are places they can’t reach themselves. There’s no need to floss after every meal, once a day should be enough. Also, there are special floss threaders and picks on the market made for those who sport braces so they can floss much easier.

Look into Invisalign

If your kid is still refusing to practice proper dental hygiene or they find the traditional braces painful or restrictive to their lifestyle, make sure to look into Invisalign. This treatment is less invasive and much more comfortable than metal braces. If made by state-of-the-art professionals, your kid can have their smile transformed with virtually no inconvenience so look for dental clinics where you can get Invisalign in Sydney if you live in Australia. This smart brace can be removed before mealtime and brushing, making the transition period much easier than when wearing conventional braces. Just make sure that your child wears their Invisalign at all times and they’ll have their pearly whites perfectly straight in no time.

Offer them braces-friendly food

Once your child gets their braces installed, they will need to make some dietary adjustments too. They will need to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods. If your child is finding it hard to adjust, talking to them and explaining the benefits of braces is going to make them more willing to make the change. There’s still so much tasty food that they can eat such as dairy goods, soft fruits, and cooked food. Also, make sure to cut up harder fruits and veggies into smaller pieces since braces will make it a bit harder to bite.

Have regular orthodontist appointments

One of the most important things you need to do as a parent of a child who wears braces is to carefully keep a schedule of all future orthodontist appointments. If something transpires and there’s a loose bracket or wire, make sure to call in and have them see you immediately. Regularly checking in with your doctor will make your child’s braces journey more manageable and smoother.

Braces can fix smiles in no time, but the first couple of months require we get used to a completely new way of living. If your child is having some troubles adjusting to braces, make sure to be a supportive parent and remind them to practice proper dental hygiene. If all else fails and traditional braces don’t work out, make sure to look into Invisalign.