Braces offer the best solution to orthodontic problems for both children and adults. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, parents should schedule an evaluation for their children no later than seven years old. However, taking care of braces can be very challenging for children. Here are six tips to help your child care for their braces.
1. Encourage Regular Brushing
To take proper care of their braces, it is best to encourage your child to brush their teeth after every meal. Regular brushing prevents food particles from getting stuck in the braces. Provide your child with an electric brush and fluoride toothpaste for best results.
2. Encourage Regular Flossing
Flossing is as important as brushing when it comes to taking care of braces. Nevertheless, children tend to skip flossing. Instill a flossing routine in your home to enable your child to floss every day to maintain the integrity of their braces.
3. Tell Your Child to Avoid Sticky & Sugary Food
Children love eating sticky and sugary foods like candy and other sweets. Discourage your child from eating these kinds of food because they contain too much sugar, which can stick to their teeth and cause tooth decay. Sticky food can also stick on the braces themselves, which can interfere with the wire and other hardware used for teeth alignment.
4. Discourage Your Child from Eating Crunchy & Hard Food
Like sticky and sugary food, crunchy and hard food can also cause damage to their braces. Discourage your children from eating foods like apples or groundnuts. This will help protect your child’s braces from breaking or coming loose.
5. Buy Your Child a Mouth Guard
If your child is playing sports like soccer, football, or basketball, it would be best to buy them a mouth guard. Flying balls or tripping can accidentally damage the braces. Investing in a mouth guard will help take care of your child’s mouth and braces.
6. Take Your Child to See the Dentist Regularly
Even if you have everything covered, visiting the dentist every six months will make all the difference in your child’s orthodontic treatment. A dentist can remove particles stuck on the braces or clean the areas your child isn’t able to reach. It’s very important to stay on track with your child’s regular dental cleanings while they’re in orthodontic treatment.
Start using these tips today to help your child take care of their braces. Contact David Ross Orthodontics if you have any questions concerning your child’s braces.
