How To Ease The Transition Into Braces For Your Child
If your child's teeth are significantly misaligned, their dentist may recommend having them fitted for braces sooner rather than later. Braces will help straighten their teeth so that they not only look better but also allow your child to eat and speak properly. Getting braces can be hard for a child in ways. However, there are a few things you can do to ease the transition into braces for your child.
Take them to a pediatric specialist.
Some orthodontists work on both children and adults, and then there are pediatric orthodontists who only work with kids and braces for children. If you can find a pediatric orthodontist in your area, they are probably your best bet. Not only do they tend to have more experience working on kids' mouths, but their staff are used to dealing with children and keeping them comfortable, and their waiting rooms are typically designed with kids' needs in mind, too. The whole experience of having braces put on and then repeatedly adjusted is likely to be more pleasant for your child.
Let them pick their color.
Braces typically come in plain metal, but the rubber bands also come in a range of colors. Kids tend to like picking the color of their rubber bands. It helps them feel more in control of what's happening to their mouths. It may also make them less self-conscious when people look at them and their smiles.
Talk to them about your braces experience.
Did you also have braces when you were younger? If so, talk to your child about your braces and how the experience went for you. You do not have to share just positive stories, either. Tell your kids about hardships you had with your braces and how you worked to overcome them. This will help your child feel less alone if their braces do sometimes make them feel sore or uncomfortable.
Have pain relievers on hand.
Your child's jaw and mouth will probably be a bit sore after they have the braces put on, and after they have them adjusted. It can be helpful to give them some over-the-counter pain relievers when this happens. Talk to their pediatrician or dentist to get a better idea of which ones to give them, when, and how much.
In the long run, your child will be better off having braces. Follow the tips above to make the experience more comfortable for them.