Kids’ braces FAQs – A parents' guide (Part 4)

Some of the key questions the parents of our young patients ask about kids’ braces.

Full Children's Orthodontics Guide

+ Part 1: An introduction
+ Part 2: Does my child need an orthodontist?
+ Part 3: Braces for children
+ Part 4: Kids’ braces FAQs
+ Part 5: Retainers for kids

DO KIDS’ BRACES HURT?

All dental appliances may cause some discomfort and feel unusual at first because of the pressure being put on your child’s teeth.

But this means your child knows the treatment’s working and they’re moving towards straight teeth.

Any pain and discomfort will usually start to ease within days.

If it continues, orthodontists can sometimes adjust the braces to ease the discomfort.

Could my child be allergic to braces?

In rare cases, orthodontic patients can be allergic to the nickel used in some braces.

Alternatives to nickel can usually be found so that your child can continue with treatment.

WHAT SHOULD MY CHILD EXPECT FROM THEIR FIRST VISIT TO THE ORTHODONTIST?

At their first visit to Wytes, we will assess any problems and discuss a possible treatment plan with you and your child. A brace will not be fitted.

We will also talk through any concerns you and your child have about their dental health.

If it’s appropriate for your child to have orthodontic treatment, we may book an appointment for a detailed diagnostic review including x-rays and photographs.

Which foods will be off limits while wearing braces?

With most fixed braces, it’s a good idea to avoid hard foods such as crusty bread or apples - especially at first until a patient gets used to wearing them.

Your child should cut up hard foods into small pieces before eating. These foods could easily break the wires and brackets in a brace.

Patients should also avoid chewy foods, such as sweets, which could stick to braces.

It’s best to stick to water and plain milk because sugary, fizzy drinks can stain the brackets on teeth.

When wearing Invisalign, the only thing the patient should consume is water - but these braces can be taken out to eat.

It’s important for Invisalign patients to brush their teeth every time they have something to eat or something other than water to drink.

How long will treatment with kids’ braces take?

This varies from patient to patient.

The majority wear braces for approximately two years.

Treatment in more severe cases may take longer.

It’s important to listen to – and act on – the advice given by the orthodontist.

If patients don’t follow this advice, treatment can take longer than necessary.

How should my child look after their braces?

It’s important for your child to keep their teeth - and their braces - clean.

This is because braces can lead to a build up of plaque… so your child may want to spend a little longer brushing.

To look after their teeth, as ever, your child should brush twice a day, cut down on sugary food and drink, and visit the dentist for regular dental check-ups.

Interdental brushes – to clean in the spaces between teeth as well as in and around the dental appliance – and daily use of an alcohol-free mouthwash can also help.

If you have a teenager who uses Invisalign, please be aware the plastic aligners can crack if they’re not handled gently.

Patients can brush and rinse them in water and use special cleaning tablets.

Contact us now to make an appointment or to find out more about children’s orthodontics.

Please join us next time for part five of our ultimate parents’ guide to children’s orthodontics.