Lee Orthodontics

How to Prepare Your Child for the Braces Procedure

Posted on October 28, 2020

family orthodontics

Braces treatments are essential in addressing oral health issues. Over the years, braces have proven to be effective in restoring patients’ smiles and correcting misalignments in your teeth. Statistics indicate that Invisalign has a satisfactory rate of 96%.

However, the idea of going to a dentist for Invisalign braces or traditional options can cause anxiety and fear, especially in children. Here are some top tips for preparing your child for braces.

Explain the Importance of Braces

Your little one may have to wear braces for a couple of years to correct their teeth. From the perspective of a child, that may seem like an eternity. That’s why it’s wise to set aside time to explain the reasons for undergoing the procedure. Mention that it will help their teeth in the long run. If they’re still not convinced, try telling them that it’s a right of passage for kids their age.

It is also crucial that you go through the different options with your child. You can both research details about family orthodontics online. By considering the treatment options together, they will be more prepared when you visit the dentist for the procedure.

Document the Journey

Make your child understand that braces are for a season and not for a lifetime. As you explain the procedure, let your young one know the benefits of braces both now and in the future.

Take a photo with your child before and after visiting family orthodontics. Documenting the journey will get them more enthusiastic about getting braces. This will come in handy when you show them before and after photos for when their braces are finally off.

Celebrate Milestones

As a parent, your family orthodontics will require your child to go back for follow-up appointments. Routine checkups are usually after four to six weeks to determine the progress of the treatment.

You can prepare your child by organizing a timetable to celebrate those follow-ups as milestones. It will present you with the opportunity to explain the treatment procedure and why it is necessary. Celebrating milestones will keep your young one engaged throughout the journey.

Diet Change

You will also need to explain to your little one why they need to stay away from some foods. Chewy and sticky candy can mess up the braces and increase the duration of the treatment process. You ought to avoid hard foodstuffs like carrots, popcorn, and nuts during that period.

The best way to protect your child’s oral health is by involving them when picking a suitable soft food diet. It ought to include nutritious but easy-to-chew foods like eggs, milk, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. Communicate those changes as early as possible to ensure they are ready after going to the braces office.

Be Involved

To ensure the recovery is successful, make a point of involving your child throughout the treatment. They may experience discomfort so your know-how and support will be useful in helping them get through it.

Preparing your child for a visit to the family orthodontics reduces anxiety. It encourages them to cooperate during the treatment to ensure a successful recovery. Commit to regular dental checkups to minimize the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. For more information on how to prepare your child for braces procedure as well as Invisalign treatment, contact Lee Orthodontics in Abilene Texas.