Having braces for teens and children fitted for the very first time can be an unusual experience, as it is a complete change to both their appearance and routine. Therefore, having a guide to caring for braces on children’s teeth can help both you, the parent, and your child to navigate through this new experience.
Cleaning Braces on Children’s Teeth
It may be difficult enough already encouraging your child to follow the recommended dental care routine of brushing their teeth every morning and evening. However, if you can find a way to make a brace care routine more enjoyable, perhaps through music or games, it may ease some of the pressure.
Fixed braces need to be kept clean as food can easily become trapped, so we are going to teach you how to clean them. Firstly, your child will need a toothbrush with thinner, soft bristles which can gently brush in and around their brace. Then fight against tooth decay with a fluoride toothpaste.
When you’re ready, follow the following steps to care for braces for teens and children:
- Remove the elastics from their brace - if they have them.
- Teach your child to brush at a 45 degree angle. This will help them to reach where their teeth and gums meet, so check they are aiming upwards on their lower teeth and downwards on their upper teeth.
- Instruct your child to individually brush each tooth, doing so in a gentle back and forth movement.
- Next they should brush around each of their brace’s brackets and make sure the wire is clean.
- Help your child to inspect around their freshly cleaned teeth so that there is no lingering food remains, before replacing their elastics.
Do’s and Don'ts with Food
When caring for braces on children’s teeth, the first few days after having them fitted may be a bit sensitive. Therefore, during the first few days, try softer foods such as mashed potatoes, yoghurts, soups, scrambled eggs, soft fruits and soft cheeses.
Throughout their brace treatment, a good rule to follow is to not eat any foods which are too hard, chewy or sticky. This is because they can potentially damage the braces wires or bands, as well as separate brackets from teeth. Therefore, try to avoid giving your child these types of foods, such as popcorn, nuts, chewing gum, hard or chewy sweets, hard crackers, heavy bread or crunchy fruit and vegetables.
Caring for Discomfort
While tender teeth and a sore mouth are to be expected during the first week or so of having braces for teens and children fitted, there are ways to ease discomfort. Eventually it will wear off, but can be treated with over the counter painkillers. Discomfort caused by rubbing can be soothed with orthodontic wax - just ask your orthodontist about having some on hand!
If you are concerned that a repair is needed, explore our guidance on orthodontic repairs, including what situations require an emergency orthodontist and which problems can be resolved at home.
Get in Touch About Braces for Teens and Children
At Dulwich Orthodontics we aim to provide a caring and relaxed environment, while providing a fantastic range of the latest braces and appliances. If you are looking for a local orthodontist in Dulwich who offers braces for teens and children, get in touch with our team today.