Braces are a pivotal part of many children’s journeys toward achieving a healthy and beautiful smile. However, the path to straighter teeth often requires extra attention to oral hygiene, as braces introduce unique challenges to maintaining clean teeth and gums. Without proper care, braces can trap food particles and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. As a parent, your role in supporting your child’s oral health during this time is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to help your child keep their teeth and gums healthy while they undergo orthodontic treatment.
1. Mastering Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
One of the most important habits to reinforce is proper brushing and flossing. Braces create more nooks and crannies where food and bacteria can hide, making it essential for your child to adopt more meticulous cleaning methods.
Brushing: Encourage your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head. Have them focus on cleaning each tooth individually, angling the brush at a 45-degree angle to reach both above and below the brackets. Cleaning the gumline is just as important as the teeth themselves, as plaque buildup near the gums can lead to inflammation and gingivitis.
Flossing: Flossing can be more challenging with braces, but it’s essential for removing food particles and plaque from between the teeth. Use floss threaders or special orthodontic floss designed to weave between the wires of the braces. Water flossers are also a great option, offering an easier, effective way to clean those hard-to-reach areas.
2. Choosing the Right Oral Care Products
The market is full of oral care products, but certain items are more beneficial for children with braces. Along with a soft-bristled toothbrush, consider the following:
- Interdental Brushes: These small, pointed brushes are ideal for cleaning between the braces’ wires and the teeth.
- Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and fight cavities. Be sure your child uses a toothpaste containing fluoride.
- Mouthwash: Antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash can offer extra protection against plaque and cavities. It also helps wash away food particles that brushing might miss.
Help your child get into the habit of rinsing with mouthwash daily, preferably after flossing or brushing.
3. Encouraging a Braces-Friendly Diet
Diet plays a significant role in oral health, and it’s even more critical when your child has braces. Certain foods can damage the brackets or wires, while others can contribute to plaque buildup.
Here’s a simple rule: soft foods are safe, and sticky, hard, or crunchy foods are risky. Some foods to avoid include:
- Hard candy
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Sticky candies like caramel or taffy
- Ice cubes (chewing on ice can damage braces)
Encourage your child to eat soft fruits, cooked vegetables, yogurt, and cheese. These foods are gentle on their braces and less likely to get stuck in the wires. Remind them to cut harder foods, like apples or carrots, into smaller, bite-sized pieces to reduce the risk of breaking their brackets.
4. Regular Dental Checkups and Orthodontic Adjustments
While your child’s orthodontist will handle the braces adjustments, don’t forget the importance of regular dental visits. Routine dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for preventing cavities and other oral health issues during braces treatment. Your dentist can spot early signs of trouble, like gum disease or decalcification (white spots on the teeth), which are more common when oral hygiene isn’t perfect.
During these appointments, the dentist will perform professional cleanings that go beyond what your child can do at home, removing plaque and tartar in areas that might be tough to clean with braces. Make sure these appointments are scheduled every six months—or more frequently if recommended by your dentist.
5. Recognizing Signs of Oral Health Problems
It’s important to keep an eye on your child’s oral health between appointments. Some signs that may indicate your child needs extra care or a trip to the dentist include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- White spots on the teeth (a sign of enamel weakening)
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait until the next scheduled visit. Prompt attention can prevent minor problems from escalating into more serious concerns.
6. Using Orthodontic Wax for Comfort
Braces can sometimes cause irritation to the cheeks, lips, and gums, especially when they’re first applied or adjusted. Orthodontic wax is a simple solution to prevent or relieve this discomfort. Show your child how to apply small pieces of wax to the brackets or wires causing irritation. The wax acts as a barrier between the braces and the sensitive areas of the mouth, providing immediate relief.
7. Staying Positive and Supportive
Getting braces can be an emotional experience for kids, particularly if they feel self-conscious about their appearance. It’s essential to provide emotional support during this time. Reassure your child that braces are temporary and that the result—a beautiful, healthy smile—will be worth the effort. Encourage them to stay consistent with their oral hygiene routine, emphasizing how their care now will impact their future smile.
Supporting your child’s oral health during braces treatment requires a combination of proper hygiene, a braces-friendly diet, regular dental visits, and emotional encouragement. By instilling good habits early and staying proactive, you’ll help ensure that their smile is not only straighter but healthier, too.
For expert advice on maintaining excellent oral health during orthodontic treatment, schedule an appointment with Christine L. Mai, DDS PC Cosmetic and Family Dentistry. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way toward a healthier smile.