If your child is going to have braces put on, then you want to do your part to ensure that the transition goes as smoothly as possible. While there is a certain level if discomfort that is to be expected, there are still a lot of things that can be done to take some discomfort away and make the experience more pleasant in different ways.

Make sure you stay stocked up on the orthodontic wax

When your child has their braces put on, the dental office should send you home with a care kit that should include things like aftercare instructions and orthodontic wax. This wax can be softened with your child's fingertips and then gently pushed onto the sharp parts of their braces that are the most bothersome to the inside of their mouth. They will only be given a limited supply of this wax, so you want to make sure you purchase more before they run out. It will prove to be helpful not only after the braces are first put on, but also each time they go in for adjustments and tightening appointments.

Give your child the option of choosing their own color of bands

As an adult, you may not realize just how exciting it can be for your child to have the option of choosing the colors of their bands. While this may not have been an option years ago, in this day in age, it is extremely common for children to choose their own color preferences for their bands. They can choose to go with the traditional color, or just about any other color they want. They can go with a single color or spice things up by going with every color of the rainbow.

Don't give in when it comes to your child eating the wrong foods

Your child may be stubborn when it comes to wanting to continue eating their favorite foods, even if some of the shouldn't be eaten when wearing braces. This is where you have to be more stubborn than they are and stick to the rules. Eating certain foods like gum, hard candy, and popcorn can spell trouble with braces. You should find alternative foods they like just as much, but that won't cause problems with their braces. You can give them chewing wax instead of chewing gum or give them partially frozen grapes covered in powdered gelatin instead of their favorite sweet and sour gummy candies. There are alternatives for nearly everything if you research and think outside of the box.

For more information and tips for transitioning to braces, talk with the professionals at a dentist office, such as Sedation Dentistry Center.

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