When your child gets braces at Bennett Orthodontics in Mobile, AL, it’s an exciting step toward a lasting and confident smile. But Dr. Bennett wants to remind patients that it also comes with a few new responsibilities for both of you. Good dental habits are more important than ever since braces make it a little easier for plaque to hide. We’ll tell you how to make these habits stick by keeping things simple and adding a bit of fun along the way, which will help your child foster good dental habits with their new braces.
Start with a Daily Routine
Sticking to a consistent daily routine is helpful. It doesn’t have to be complicated; just a few simple steps will keep your child’s smile healthy during their braces treatment. Here’s a quick look at what a solid routine could look like:
- Brush Twice a Day: Focus on brushing above, below, and around each bracket.
- Use a Soft Toothbrush: Softer bristles are gentler on gums and braces.
- Floss Daily: Try using a floss threader to make it easier to get around those wires.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: An antibacterial rinse can help prevent plaque and freshen their breath.
Being consistent with their routine can have a significant impact. It’s about building habits that will carry throughout the entire treatment and long after.
Try to Make Dental Care Fun
Dental hygiene might feel like an extra chore, but adding a bit of creativity can make it enjoyable for your child. When something feels fun, it’s easier to stick with it. Here are a couple of ways to make oral hygiene part of the day they look forward to.
Set Up a Reward System
Rewards can go a long way in building good habits. You don’t need to go overboard; small incentives can make a big impact on your child’s willingness to stay on track.
- Daily Points: Give points for each task completed—brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
- Weekly Rewards: When they reach a certain number of points, let them pick a reward, like an extra hour of screen time or a family game night.
- Monthly Goals: Celebrate bigger accomplishments, like an entire month of consistent brushing, with a special treat like a trip to their favorite park or an activity they love.
Make the Tools Exciting
Who says toothbrushes and floss can’t be fun? With the right tools, kids might actually look forward to brushing.
- Electric Toothbrushes with Fun Features: Some electric toothbrushes light up or play music to make brushing more engaging.
- Bright and Colorful Flossers: Bright colors make flossing feel more like an activity than a chore.
- Flavored Mouthwash: Let them pick a kid-friendly flavor like bubblegum or berry to make rinsing more enjoyable.
How to Tackle Common Braces Challenges
As much as we try to overcome potential issues, there undoubtedly will be a few hiccups along the way. Here are some common challenges and solutions to keep their oral hygiene on track with their orthodontic treatment.
Getting Around Those Brackets
Brushing with braces takes a bit of extra effort, especially when it comes to reaching around the brackets. Show your child how to angle the toothbrush and work gently around each wire and bracket. With practice, it’ll start to feel like second nature.
Flossing Troubles
Flossing can be tough for kids with braces, but there are tools to make it easier. Floss threaders or water flossers help them reach all those tricky spots that regular floss can’t.
When It Feels Overwhelming
It’s natural for kids to get a little frustrated with all the extra steps. Remind them that each step they take now will pay off with a beautiful smile in the end. Encouraging words and some patience go a long way in helping them adjust.
Nutrition Matters
Diet is another important piece in maintaining a healthy smile during braces treatment. What your child eats can make a big difference for both their teeth and braces.
What to Eat
Encourage foods that are safe for braces and provide the nutrients their teeth need:
- Soft Fruits: Bananas, oranges, and berries are gentle on braces and packed with vitamins.
- Dairy Products: Cheese, yogurt, and milk are full of calcium, supporting strong teeth.
- Leafy Greens and Vegetables: Spinach, cucumbers, and carrots add a boost of vitamins to their diet.
Foods to Skip
Some foods can be too hard on braces, so it’s best to steer clear of these:
- Sticky Candy and Sweets: Gummies, caramels, and chewy treats can get stuck in brackets and are hard to clean around.
- Crunchy Snacks: Foods like popcorn, nuts, and hard pretzels can damage wires and brackets.
- Sugary Drinks: Soft drinks and sugary juices lead to plaque buildup, which can be even harder to clean around braces.
Why Regular Check-Ups Matter
Regular orthodontic check-ups are essential. These check-ups help with adjustments and let Dr. Bennett and our team monitor your child’s overall dental health. These visits are also a chance to address concerns you may have and fine-tune your child’s treatment plan as needed.
We’re Here for You and Your Child’s Smile Journey
Keeping up with dental care while your child has braces can feel like a lot, but you don’t have to go it alone. Dr. Bennett and everyone in our Mobile, AL office are here to support you both every step of the way. Whether it’s sharing tips on helpful products or providing extra encouragement when needed, we’re here to make every step easier for you and your child. Ready to get started? Schedule a free consultation with us at Bennett Orthodontics today!