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Helping Your Child Adjust to Braces
When your child reaches the age of 7, it’s recommended that they see an orthodontic specialist for a check-up to determine if braces are suitable. Getting braces is a unique experience, and helping your child understand the process beforehand can help ease their anxieties.
Keep reading to learn more about the commonly asked questions our experts at Starship M Kids Dentistry hear to help your child learn what to expect when they undergo orthodontic treatment.
How Does the Braces Application Process Work?
When you first come to our office, we’ll talk to you and your little one about their braces options. You may elect to choose either traditional metal braces or Invisalign — a clear braces option.
First, we’ll take a mold of your child’s teeth so that we can form their orthodontic treatment just for them. At their next appointment, we’ll apply the braces, and make a follow-up appointment for their first adjustment — where our orthodontist will tighten the braces as needed.
With traditional braces, your child can pick colored rubber bands to make their braces a fun, colorful accessory. With the Invisalign route, your child can straighten their teeth with little change to their smile’s appearance during the process.
Will My Braces Hurt?
If your child has never undergone a dental or orthodontic treatment to this extent in the past, they may have some apprehensions about their braces. Due to the slight pressure that braces put on your teeth to shift them, your child may feel mild discomfort as they adjust to their braces.
However, it is important to note that this sensation should dull over time. If your child ever feels sharp shooting pain in their mouth, it’s best to bring them in for an appointment to ensure that their braces are attached properly.
What Happens if Braces Break?
If your child opts for traditional metal braces, they may think that they’re indestructible. However, whether it’s from chewing a hard snack or from trauma inflicted on their mouth — braces can break.
It’s important to let your child know that if an archwire (one of the supporting wires of their braces) begins to slip, there is no need to panic. The main reason for fixing your child’s braces is simply to ensure they continue to support the shift of their teeth.
You can help your child move this wire back into place, but if it is poking your little one’s gum or is uncomfortable, you can always come into our office for an adjustment. Additionally, if the bracket that was placed on your child’s tooth has fallen off, you’ll need to see our orthodontists as soon as possible so we can re-cement the bracket to your child’s smile.
How Long Will I Have to Wear Braces For?
Within the first 4 to 6 weeks of treatment, you will typically notice the biggest shift in your little one’s smile. Whether your child opts for Invisalign or traditional metal braces, at each adjustment or appointment, your teeth will become slightly straighter.
After the first appointment, you’ll typically meet with your child’s orthodontist every 4 to 6 weeks for an update. At your appointments, we will let you know about how long your child will have their braces on for. This estimate can change depending on how fast or slow your mini me’s teeth shift.
Though many children receive braces, it may become frustrating for your little one to see their classmates get their braces off before them. If this is the case, ensure your little one that their braces are on to perfect their smile and keep it straight throughout their lifetime.
How Do I Care for My Braces?
With the addition of braces, caring for teeth may feel like a daunting task for your little one — especially if they did not have a solid dental hygiene routine beforehand. Braces can sometimes be uncomfortable if food becomes trapped between the wires, but if left unmanaged, they can also be the cause of dental problems.
On the first day when your child gets braces attached, our staff will go over how to take care of the braces and what foods to avoid. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and eating habits to prevent damaging your teeth during the treatment. If your child shows signs of poor oral hygiene during orthodontic visits, the dentist may recommend frequent teeth cleaning appointments as a preventive measure.
Your child will need to make a few changes to their daily routine in order to take proper care of their orthodontic appliances.
Use these tips to help your child care for their braces:
- Cut their food into small pieces
- Remind your child to brush and floss often
- Avoid sticky sweet foods
- Visit the dentist and orthodontist regularly
Start Your Orthodontic Journey Today at Starship M Kids Dentistry
Are you ready to join our space crew today? Contact our Anaheim dental team at or visit us online to get started on a plan for your child’s future health and make going to the dentist a fun experience. With services also offered in Spanish and Korean, our staff is fully committed to offering the best dental care for your child.
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