Questions Children Often Ask About Braces

When children learn they will need to get braces, they often have questions. After all, children are often very self-conscious about the way they will appear to others, especially because braces are so apparent to the outside world. At the same time, braces are still the primary means of straightening your child's teeth thanks to the help of pressure.

Here are a few questions your child may have about braces before they go to the orthodontist for braces for the first time.

What Will Braces Look Like?

Braces do not always have to look like a mouthful of metal. Today, the brackets are bonded to each tooth and can be made of steel, ceramic, or even plastic. This means your child's brackets are less apparent to others because they can blend in.

Braces may also come with other types of orthodontia, including temporary anchorage devices, which help your teeth move around a fixed point. Some braces also come with elastics, which encourage your teeth and jaw to move differently. You can choose the colors of elastics to represent your personality, so children can have some control over this aspect of orthodontia.

Why Do You Have to Wear a Retainer?

Many children are wary of wearing a retainer after their braces are removed. The retainer is important because it prevents your teeth from shifting out of place. Fortunately, you may only need to wear your retainer at night. Ideally, people wear their retainers for the rest of their lives.

Will Wearing Braces Hurt?

While wearing braces may not be the most pleasant experience, to say that wearing them hurts is a strong statement. Children do experience some discomfort when they have their braces put on and when they are adjusting to them. Most of the pain can be treated with an over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol.

Keep in mind that some children may be allergic to specific metals that can be used in braces. If you know your child has an allergy, you can save a lot of pain and time by reporting the allergy to your child's orthodontist.

What Foods Must Children Avoid Eating with Braces?

Children with braces must avoid certain types of foods that cause break their braces. These foods include nuts, popcorn, hard candies, gum, and gummies. They might also avoid biting into apples and carrots.

With more information about braces for kids, you child may be less resistant to the idea of wearing braces, and they can leave their final appointment with a straighter, healthier smile.

Share