Your Child Just Got Braces? What You Need to Know

Braces are an effective tool for straightening crooked and misaligned teeth. If your child has braces, it’s important to help your child take care of their teeth and avoid breaking their braces. Working with an orthodontist in Solon, OH, makes this easier.

Your child’s orthodontist can provide you and your child with instructions to care for their braces. At DHP Dental, we’re happy to answer your questions about your child’s braces. Here’s what you need to know about your child’s braces.

How Long Braces Treatment Lasts

Kids typically wear braces for one to three years. How long your child wears their braces depends on the severity of their problem and what needs to be done to correct it. The orthodontist will provide an estimated time for your child’s treatment.

How to Keep Braces Clean

Braces tend to trap food and debris against tooth enamel, and removing that food and debris can be tough. Here are some tips your child can follow to keep their braces clean:

• Have your child brush their teeth after each meal and snack. They should also brush their teeth every morning and evening for two minutes.
• Instruct your child to use a floss threader to floss their teeth. The orthodontist will show your child how to use the floss threader when they get braces.
• Use mouthwash.
• Tell your child to avoid eating sticky foods (like caramel candies) that could stick to their braces.

How to Avoid Breaking Braces

Braces can be damaged by hard, crusty foods, like crusty bread and nuts. Keep soft snacks on hand for your child, and serve soft foods at meals.

What to Do If Your Child’s Braces Break

If your child’s braces break at any time, contact the orthodontist as soon as possible to make an appointment for repair. Broken braces can cause injury, and if the braces are not repaired soon, the problem may only get worse. Don’t have your child try to fix their braces unless the orthodontist provides instructions.

Are Braces Uncomfortable?

Braces are not uncomfortable during the installation process. Once they’re installed, they may be uncomfortable for the first few days. Your child may also experience discomfort after braces are adjusted.

Do you have more questions about your child’s braces? The professionals at DHP Dental can help. Call today to learn more about braces in Solon, OH.