Taking care of braces properly might be a hassle at times, but making it a fun habit and being persistent will pay off in the long run.
Braces are now more popular than ever. One reason is that people are becoming aware of the importance of correctly aligned teeth. Moreover, dentistry has become patient-oriented and advanced enough to make this treatment comfortable. Childhood is a good time to wear braces, as long as the patient has enough permanent teeth, and it gives them confidence and a good outlook on dental health.
However, having braces is quite a lengthy process, and it requires extra care when it comes to what your child eats and how they clean their teeth. Even if patients are at least 8-10 years old when they get braces and they already brush their teeth by themselves, it’s important to get involved as a parent when it comes to ensuring good brushing habits.
Get the Right Tools for It
Braces need special tools to be cleaned, so make sure you get them and replace them when necessary. You might already know that it’s important to choose the right toothbrush for your child’s needs, so get a new one as soon as they are wearing their braces.
Their toothbrush should have soft, thinner bristles that can get in the tight spaces in between the teeth and behind the braces. Use them with a good fluoridated toothpaste that is designed for children and will protect your child’s enamel.
Proxy brushes are also needed when wearing braces, as they are created to properly clean the teeth thoroughly, behind the wires and in between them while being gentle on the hardware of the braces. Proxy brushes come in different sizes, so make sure you get the one your St. Louis pediatric dentist recommends.
If you want to make sure food deposits are properly cleaned, you can get water or air flosser for your child. These use a jet of water or air which will clean everything effectively.
Monitor Their Cleaning Technique and Assist Them When Needed
Getting the right tools will not help if your child doesn’t use the proper techniques when cleaning their teeth and braces. When you are at the dentist with them, make sure to follow when they give cleaning instructions and ask them to demonstrate them. This will give you the chance to address any questions you may have.
Make Sure They Follow the Dentist’ Recommendations
As mentioned, your child’s diet should also be adapted to them wearing braces. First of all, the extra surfaces and tight spaces in their mouth are easily retaining food particles, which can lead to cavities if not cleaned properly.
You should also pay attention to what your child eats, and it’s best to eliminate foods that can damage the teeth or braces or that get stuck to them. These are sticky and hard foods like caramels, chips, starchy snacks, etc.
Take Them to Get Checked as Often as Needed
Going for dentist check-ups is mandatory when wearing braces, as they need to be fitted and evaluated periodically. Make sure your child gets to every appointment and keep your information updated.
Taking care of braces properly might be a hassle at times, but making it a fun habit and being persistent really helps your child embrace the treatment and realize the importance it has for their future dental health.