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Having a beautifully straight smile can boost confidence, promote easy chewing and speech patterns, and helps reduce the risk of oral health issues in the future. As such, many parents work with a family dentist to fit children for braces. If your child has recently had braces put on, here are a few ways to ease the transition. 

4 Tips for Getting Children Acclimated to Braces

1. Provide Soft Foods

Once braces are put on, your child is likely to experience some tenderness as they get acclimated to brackets and wires in their mouth. Provide soft foods that require minimal chewing to reduce the risk of added discomfort. Smoothies, yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soft noodles, ice cream, and pudding will be easy to eat. 

2. Encourage a Good Cleaning Routine

Your dentist will walk yChillicothe-Bracesou and your child through the altered brushing and flossing routine necessary when wearing braces. This process will include a floss threader and a small interproximal brush to scrub between brackets.

To keep your child motivated to complete this extended routine, make a habit of brushing and flossing in tandem. Make the routine fun and something to look forward to so they don’t skip steps.

3. Listen to Aesthetic Concerns

It’s natural for children to feel self-conscious when wearing braces or worried about feedback from classmates. Listen thoughtfully to their concerns and whether they’re facing negative reactions from other children. Remind your child they are beautiful and loved and that braces are temporary.

Additionally, remind them of the exciting outcome and the fact that most children also go through some form of cosmetic dentistry service. 

4. Check Comfort Levels

Immediately following adjustments and appointments with the dentist, your child may experience added discomfort as a result of tighter wires and shifting teeth.

Pay attention to how they’re feeling and administer over-the-counter pain medication when applicable and as directed by your oral care team. Ice cream and other frozen treats can also soothe discomfort.

 

If you’re looking for a dedicated family dentist that offers braces and comprehensive care for patients of all ages, Family Dental Center is right for you. With three convenient locations and 43 years of experience, residents throughout Southern Ohio can depend on this practice for innovative oral care in a welcoming environment. To schedule a teeth cleaning, call (740) 773-4066. For more information on their general and cosmetic dentistry services, visit their website

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