Your child’s baby teeth have a big job to do as they help guide her adult teeth into the right places. If your child loses her baby teeth too early then she may have issues with her adult teeth and may need to visit an orthodontist. It’s pretty common for young people to need orthodontic treatment and the chances are that at least one of your child’s friends will be going through the same thing.
If your child does require braces, then it is really important that he pay particular attention to brushing teeth and flossing. Braces are the way to achieve straight teeth that most of us strive towards. For the best results, your teen will need to take care of their braces and their teeth as well. Your child’s orthodontist will show her how to clean and care for her braces and give you some products to make things easier for you. However, it’s the day to day care that really counts.
Your teen will need to take good care of your braces everyday by being mindful of what they eat and by brushing their teeth very well. If your teen has braces, it can be hard to brush their teeth and they may have some discomfort when eating. It’s vital that braces are treated responsibly in order to ensure braces last until the end of the treatment. While visiting the orthodontist is very important, your teen needs to take care of the braces by regular flossing and brushing.
Watching what to eat
The orthodontist will advise your teen that there are certain foods that you just can't have while wearing braces. These are largely foods that are hard or sticky, such as; popcorn, gum, crisps and peanuts. Eating hard foods can break braces, so they should be avoided. Sticky foods, can cause particles to become trapped inside metal brackets and can be hard to remove. Apples and carrots can also be problematic, so it may be best to avoid them.
Watching what to eat
The orthodontist will advise your teen that there are certain foods that you just can't have while wearing braces. These are largely foods that are hard or sticky, such as; popcorn, gum, crisps and peanuts. Eating hard foods can break braces, so they should be avoided. Sticky foods, can cause particles to become trapped inside metal brackets and can be hard to remove. Apples and carrots can also be problematic, so it may be best to avoid them.
Brushing your braces
Many teens will find it difficult to brush their teeth, however brushing is so important to get a healthy and great looking smile as well. Braces have small compartments which are excellent places for bacteria and plaque to hide. This can in turn lead to tooth decay. Where possible, brush your teeth after every meal or snack. All surfaces of teeth, along with the crevices of your teen’s braces need to be cleaned thoroughly.
Teen braces are not hard to maintain but diligence is required. Encourage your teen to be disciplined in their approach and before long they will have the straight teeth and beautiful smile they have always wanted.
Read more: Dental care for teens
