How Can You Help Your Child Adjust to Wearing Braces?

Getting braces is a great way to correct problems that affect jaw alignment. But it’s not always easy for kids when they start wearing them. Our orthodontists in Staten Island, NY, at Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D., P.C. offer the following tips on what you can do to help your child get used to having them on their teeth.

Stock Up on Soft and Cold Foods

Braces cause some soreness at first, so offering your child soft foods that are easy to eat, like mashed potatoes, is helpful. Cold foods, such as ice cream or yogurt, can also help soothe aches and pains.

Offer Orthodontic Wax and OTC Medicine for Soreness

Use this kind of wax on wires and brackets that are causing irritation to help protect vulnerable areas, such as the tongue and inner cheeks.

Show Them How to Brush and Floss

After getting braces in Staten Island, NY, your child will need to make some adjustments to brushing and flossing. We’ll show you how it’s done, so you can teach your child at home.

Encourage Smiling and Boost Self-Esteem

It’s natural for kids to feel self-conscious about having braces on their teeth. Remind your child that this is a common treatment for kids, so they’re not alone. Have them practice smiling and talking to feel more confident in front of others.

Discuss Food Limitations

Go over the foods that your child will need to avoid while wearing braces, like popcorn and anything that’s hard or sticky.

Visit Our Orthodontists for Braces

Does your child have orthodontic issues? Our team at Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D., P.C. offers braces in Staten Island, NY, for children with alignment problems and other orthodontic conditions. We can provide additional advice for helping your child adjust to their new braces!