A straight, bright smile is considered highly desirable, but many people are not born with naturally straight teeth. Thus, it is not surprising that many adolescents need braces to correct smile issues and straighten teeth. As a parent, you are sure to understand the benefits of braces, but your child may be nervous or uneasy about starting orthodontic treatment. Luckily, there are a number of ways to get prepared when a child in your household is getting braces. If your child has an appointment to get braces, use the following tips:

Make Your Child a Part of the Discussion About Treatment Options

If a dentist or orthodontist has told you that your child would greatly benefit from wearing braces, take the time to talk with your child about how braces work and why he or she needs them. Be open to answering any questions that your child may have, and encourage him or her to feel free to ask the orthodontist questions. There are several different types of braces available for teens, and in some cases, invisible aligners may be recommended. After your child's orthodontist makes a recommendation for treatment, help your child learn more about braces and how they work.

Let Your Child Know What to Expect

As the appointment to have braces fitted approaches, it is normal for your child to feel nervous. You can help with his or her anxiety by explaining what will happen at the appointment. When braces are fitted, small brackets are adhered to the front of the teeth, and a thin wire is used to connect the brackets together. Some adolescents may need to attach elastic rings to the brackets as recommended by the orthodontist. After the braces are fitted, your child will need regular appointments to monitor progress and to tighten the braces to encourage teeth movement.

Buy the Right Foods

Most people do not report that having braces fitted is painful, but after the appointment, your child's teeth may be sensitive or slightly sore. For this reason, it is a good idea to have soft foods at home for him or her to eat for a few days. Soup, yogurt, rice, mashed potatoes, and ice cream are easy to eat when a person's mouth or teeth are feeling uncomfortable. Once your child has braces, avoid buying food that is chewy or sticky, as these types of food can get stuck in the brackets.

Have Dental Wax on Hand

It can take several days for your child to get used to wearing braces, and at first, the brackets may irritate the skin inside the mouth or create sore spots. An easy way to deal with this issue is by using dental wax. Dental wax can be purchased at any drug store and placed over the brackets of the braces to prevent the metal from rubbing against the sensitive skin of the mouth. 

For more information on braces, contact an orthodontist like Hyten David W DMD.

Share