Many children may need braces when they are young to help with bite issues, spacing problems, and to create a better smile for their confidence and self-esteem. Scheduling your child’s first orthodontist visit should happen by the age of seven years old, or at the first signs of malocclusion, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. If your child needs braces, here’s how to prep them for a successful trip to the orthodontist!
Discuss Options With Your Child
There are several options for braces that your orthodontist will talk with you about and you should talk with your child about all of them. Including them in the conversation will help them to feel in control of their orthodontic health and allow them to be part of the process. After choosing the right type of braces for their needs, then talk with them and your orthodontist about what the process will be like for the braces fitting so that there are no surprises for them.
Shop for Soft Foods
It is imperative that you have a good supply of soft foods on hand for after your fitting appointment so that your little one will be able to eat comfortably after getting braces. We suggest pasta and rice, mashed potato, puddings, and yogurt. Cold foods can help soothe any mild discomfort they may feel, as well. These all help achieve nutrition goals without having to chew too hard.
Remind Them of the Reason
As time wearing their braces continues, your child may start to feel tired of them and forget the long-term benefits that will come from them. Reminding them of the reason they are wearing them and that any short-term annoyances will lead to long-term confidence can be a great way to keep them motivated and positive throughout the process! Your orthodontist should also be encouraging at any check-ups. Perhaps having a timeline calendar that you mark off can help show them that they are “nearly done”, but it is important not to treat braces as a chore or punishment, but rather as a means to a beautiful smile end.
Helpful Equipment
By getting a water flosser and other helpful equipment to keep your child’s braces clean and food particles at bay, you’re able to help your child with having an easier time taking care of their braces and lower the frustration factor. There is also special dental wax that can cut down on mouth sores from rubbing against the metal in braces. All of these are small things that add up in a big way!
If your child is ready for an orthodontic consultation, we’re here for you! Give Mint Hill Orthodontics a call today at 980.243.8030 to get your FREE Smile Consult on the books!
