6 Ways to Prep Your Child for Braces

    ORLANDO, FL, January 19, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ --

Children often feel anxious when it comes to acquiring braces.

You can see them all worried and wide-eyed while visiting our orthodontist in Orlando. We understand that as parents you may also have a lot of questions about what they can eat or how they might look.

Approximately 25 to 50% of kids receive braces, not to mention that it is a very common treatment, so you rest easy knowing your child will be in capable hands the entire time. But nonetheless, getting braces can still be a little overwhelming. So, if you are wondering more about this process, contact our local dental office today.

To help your child get ready to visit an orthodontist near you, here are some things you can do to make them feel more comfortable:

1. Discuss With Them
Speaking to your child about receiving braces is the first key step that you should take to make it easier for them. Their anxiety will decrease once they're more familiar with the process.

As a parent, you may have a lot of questions, but your child will no doubt have many more. One great way to get them involved is to have them write a list of questions they have for the orthodontist. Not only will this give them the opportunity to have their voice heard, but they'll feel more empowered about their oral health as well.

2. Talk About the Procedure
Kids are generally very curious. And when it comes to getting a treatment they may not be overly familiar with, talking about the reasons why this process will help improve their oral health beforehand will put your child more at ease

Let them know that while the process of braces does take time, it's a straightforward and necessary one to improve their confidence and ability to eat and speak clearly. Their orthodontist will be able to provide them with more details surrounding the various stages of the process, including how the brackets and archwires are created and adhered to their smile, and why they might need colorful elastic bands. They'll also remind your kiddo that they can also pick the colour of the bands, which will make the treatment more fun.

Your child will be informed about the monthly visits with an orthodontist near you to have the wires adjusted, which will ensure that their teeth continue to realign.

3. Purchase Soft Foods
Soft foods are essential in the initial few days after the braces are applied. Once the pain fades, can go back to their usual diet.

Rice, pasta, ice cream, yogurt, tofu, mashed potatoes, or liquid meals like soups are good choices. Eating healthy will help them keep up their energy and keep their oral cavity healthy.

Ice-cold food items also have the added benefit of soothing sore muscles, especially when brackets start to cause friction. Hence, ensure your fridge is all stocked up with soft food items before acquiring braces near you!

4. Use Orthodontic Wax
Experiencing irritation upon receiving braces is not uncommon; orthodontic wax will help alleviate your child's discomfort. Roll the dental wax between your fingertips to soften it, and then press it onto the part of the bracket that's aching. It will create a protective layer that prevents the bracket from causing friction.

Keep the wax handy and give your kiddo their own supply. So, whenever they need to, whether at school, playing sports or with their friends, they will be able to deal with the discomfort quickly and independently.

Most orthodontists provide dental wax for free.

5. Remind Them of the End Goal
Your child's orthodontic journey can last up to a minimum of 2 years. Be sure to inform them of this before committing to their process - but let them know that wearing braces is also a temporary measure. If they dutifully look after their smiles, the results will last for the rest of their lives, and they'll be left with a smile they can be proud to show off.

6. Listen to Their Concerns
Braces can be uncomfortable and may lead to feelings of embarrassment; a lot of kids are afraid that their friends will make fun of them. At such times, give them a hug and remind them that many people have worn braces and that you can talk to your orthodontist about less noticeable options.

Let them know that life will still be the same with or without braces. Once they get used to wearing them, it will become a norm and they won't even think about it.

Are You Looking For More Information About Pediatric Braces Near You?

Overall, preparing your kiddo for braces is easy once they are involved in the whole process. They will eventually feel calmer and more comfortable after the braces are on.

Technology has provided patients of all ages with more flexibility when it comes to having their teeth straightened. Methods such as ceramic braces or Invisalign are viable options too. So, if you are looking for an orthodontist in Orlando, you can contact our staff at All About Smiles Ortho! We are here to support you and your child and will help them feel comfortable each step of the way. You can reach us via phone call, visiting our website, or dropping by our dental practice and talking to a team member in person. We look forward to working with you and your family!

All About Smiles Orthodontics is conveniently located in Orlando, Florida. Dr. María C. Méndez takes pride in providing exceptional orthodontic care at a dental clinic near you for patients of all ages. Our mission is to offer superior orthodontic services to our patients in a fun and caring environment! Our team ensures that our patients feel at home while visiting us. We prioritize the needs of our patients to provide effective, comprehensive treatment.

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