Braces are a rite of passage in life and can be a great way to improve your smile. However, if you’re the parent of a teen with braces, it can be challenging to help them through the process.

If you’ve been through it yourself, you know some ways to help your child, but not everyone has the same experiences.

Here are four tips for making their experience with orthodontics as pleasant as possible:

1. Braces Are Incredibly Common

Braces are incredibly common. In fact, over half of all Americans have had braces at some point in their life–even if they don’t remember it! Braces are also a great option for teens; they’re not just for kids anymore!

You can even search the internet for celebrities. There are plenty of pictures of popular celebrities that have undergone orthodontic treatment.

If your teen struggles with the idea, think about starting their treatment over the summer so they can adjust easily.

You can also speak with your orthodontist to learn about Invisalign as another potential treatment option.

2. Encourage Them to Talk to our Lake Geneva Orthodontist

When it comes to your teenager’s braces experience, it’s important that they feel comfortable talking with their orthodontist. The Youngquist Kennedy Orthodontics Doctors can help you with any questions or concerns during the treatment process and make sure that everything is going well. They are professionals who know what they’re doing and can address any concerns before they become serious.

3. Adjust Their Food Habits Early

One of the most difficult parts of getting braces has to be the restrictions when it comes to food. It’s a big change, especially for your teenager!

Braces do have some dietary restrictions that come with treatment. Talk to your orthodontist ahead of time and find out what they are. Foods that are sticky and chewy are at the top of the list. Start removing them from the diet early so there aren’t so many changes to adjust simultaneously.

You’ll also want to stock up on some of their favorite softer foods. There can be some discomfort when chewing after an adjustment. Their teeth and gums will be moving and a little tender. Soft foods like fruits, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and pasta are helpful these days to minimize discomfort.

4. Create a Braces Kit Together

Braces, including Invisalign, required some extra care. Your teen will need to take extra hygiene steps while away from home.

Teeth brushing is essential for good oral health. Still, it’s especially important during orthodontic treatment because there are many areas around each tooth where plaque can build up, and brushing these areas will help prevent decay from occurring in those spots as well as you’re your breath fresh!

Create a to-go kit and include some of these items:

  • Travel-size toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Dental wax for wires or brackets that have started to irritate
  • Small dental floss
  • Tylenol or another pain reliever
  • A pocket mirror

Your Orthodontist Can Help You Make Treatment Plans for Your Teen’s Braces Experience

Your orthodontist can help you with any questions or concerns about braces during this exciting time. Please don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns so we can develop the perfect plan for your smile.

FAQ

Do braces hurt?

No. Getting braces is painless. There’s a change in sensation on your teeth and some discomfort from pressure, but no pain. The level of discomfort and how long it lasts after an adjustment are different for everyone.

How do I protect my mouth while playing sports?

An orthodontic mouth guard is very important when you’re playing sports. If you get hit in the mouth, even with a mouth guard, it wouldn’t hurt to make an appointment to get things checked out, just in case.

How long do you have to wear braces?

That depends on your treatment and what needs to be aligned. It can range from 3 months for very mild cases to over a year.