Straightening teeth with braces is an exciting time that also requires patience and consistent effort. As a parent, you play a vital role in supporting your child on their orthodontic journey. Good oral hygiene is essential for every smile, particularly teeth with braces. Below, we provide you with tips on how to help your child care for their braces so they can enjoy good oral health and maximize the benefits of their treatment and your financial investment!
Regular Brushing & Flossing
Emphasize the importance of oral hygiene to your child. Ideally, they brush and floss their teeth after every meal to remove food particles stuck in or around their braces. An electric toothbrush, interdental brushes, floss threaders, and a water flosser can make this process feel less challenging and tedious.
Braces-Friendly Diet
What your child eats can make a big difference in the cleanliness and condition of their teeth and braces. Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods that can break brackets or wires. Encourage small bites and safer foods like soft bread, mashed potatoes, pasta, applesauce, yogurt, and smoothies, and cut up raw fruits and veggies.
Orthodontic Wax
Sometimes braces can cause discomfort and irritation, especially during the initial adjustment phase. Keep orthodontic wax on hand and show your child how to apply it to any sharp or protruding wires or brackets.
Mouthguard
If your child participates in sports or physical activities, provide a mouthguard to protect their braces and teeth. Custom-fitted mouthguards provide optimal protection and a comfortable fit over their braces.
Orthodontic Checkups
We understand that life can get busy but try to ensure your child attends all their scheduled orthodontic appointments. These checkups allow our team to monitor their progress, make necessary adjustments, and address any concerns.
If you have a question about how to care for your child’s teeth and braces during the course of their orthodontic treatment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Storybook Smiles Children’s Dentistry in Tyler, TX!
