The start of your child’s orthodontic journey is exciting – it’s a big step closer to the healthy, happy, and beautiful smile they deserve! Of course, your child may be focusing on something else: what it will feel like to have braces. If they are feeling a bit nervous or apprehensive, then sharing some insight on what they can expect at every stage of the process can be tremendously helpful. So, keep reading to learn about each milestone!
The First Day
Good news: the process of placing the braces on your child’s teeth is painless. Their orthodontist will simply dry their teeth, apply the glue, attach the metal brackets, and connect each one with a wire. That’s it! The only discomfort your child may feel is some soreness from keeping their mouth open for extended periods of time. Even then, the process doesn’t take too long, and the sensation should subside immediately after their visit.
The First Week
The first week is often the biggest adjustment period. In addition to abiding by their dietary restrictions (like no hard or sticky foods), your child will need to adopt other best practices like brushing their teeth after each meal. They might also feel some soreness from the pressure of their teeth moving. This is a good thing – it means their treatment is working! To alleviate any achy feelings, offer them soft foods like scrambled eggs, applesauce, yogurt, and pasta. You can also talk to their orthodontist about other solutions like rinsing with salt water, avoiding acidic drinks, and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
The First Six Months
As each week passes, your child will become more and more accustomed to life with braces. Between the first week and the six-month mark, your child will attend several adjustment appointments, which are essential for two reasons. The first is that these adjustments are what guide their teeth closer and closer to their properly aligned positions. The second is that it provides you both an opportunity to ask any questions you have, from what a braces-friendly school lunch looks like to how to navigate the holidays during orthodontic treatment.
The Final Months of Treatment
As your child’s braces removal date approaches, they will be completely adjusted. Typically, the only issue that persists is mouth sores. However, these can be both prevented and treated. Prevention involves avoiding sugary and acidic foods, using dental wax to cover any sharp edges, and keeping their mouth clean. Treatment, on the other hand, includes best practices like rinsing with salt water, eating plenty of vitamin-rich foods, and prioritizing a solid oral hygiene regimen.
Starting their orthodontic treatment is something your child should be excited about. If they have some nerves that are preventing that from happening, then share with them what they can expect throughout the process!
About the Practice
Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is home to a talented pediatric dentist, Dr. Mina Kalali, and orthodontist, Dr. Sam Alkhoury. Together, they use their experience, education, and training to help children in Nashua achieve fully functional, healthy, and beautiful smiles. If you think your child would benefit from orthodontic treatment or you have a question about life with braces, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (603) 880-5002.