Braces today, also known as orthodontic appliances, are more advanced than ever. Some are fixed, others removable. Brackets, which attach to each tooth, can even be placed behind the teeth. Braces can be inconspicuous or fashionably colorful. Your child can flaunt the school colors or show patriotism with shades of red, white and blue. If your child is a candidate for braces, prepare him or her with as much information as possible to make the most of the treatment.
Preparing for Braces
Before your child visits the orthodontist for the first time, Children's Hospital of Boston recommends that you spend time talking about the appointment. Watch videos about braces and read books on the subject. Be reassuring and speak calmly about the process. Refrain from talking about drills and injections, but don't promise that there will be no discomfort.
Orthodontic Visits
To evaluate your child's general oral health, the orthodontist may take X-rays on the first visit. In addition, your child will receive a cleaning and a thorough dental evaluation. On this first visit, the orthodontist determines whether your child is a candidate for braces. If treatment is prescribed, your orthodontist will set up a second appointment, at which time the dentist will take impressions of the mouth to determine the right course of treatment. Once the braces are properly placed, your child will see the orthodontist every four to six weeks for adjustments.
Care and Maintenance of Braces
Children with braces should brush their teeth after each meal, concentrating the toothbrush along the gum line. In addition, children need to floss at least once a day using threaders to guide the floss in between the brackets of the braces. To achieve the desired results from orthodontic treatment, braces must remain intact at all times. If wires or brackets loosen or break, visit the dentist quickly for an adjustment. To prevent injury, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children with braces wear a mouth guard when engaged in sporting activities.
Dietary Recommendations
Children's Hospital of St Louis suggests that children with braces eat limited amounts of sugary and starchy foods. The residual acids from these foods can cause plaque to build up, which promotes tooth and gum disease. Children should also avoid sticky, chewy foods, such as caramel and nuts, which can adhere to braces and be difficult to clean.
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