How to Mentally Prepare Your Child For Braces

April 5, 2017

Many people are required to get braces to ensure even, straight teeth. An ideal and opportune time to get them is during adolescents, as children’s bones are still growing. Kids, upon finding out they are due for getting braces may become automatically afraid or nervous about the pain involved with the upcoming event and what it entails. They may also express fear of negative social aftermath from their sudden change in appearance. Ways to help comfort your child in preparation for braces can be found here.

Junk Food “Spree”: There are certain sweet treats and foods they will not be able to partake of while wearing braces. In the three or four days preceding their dental appointment allow them to have sticky candy like gummy bears, caramel and their favorite hard crunchy foods like popcorn and chips. To go all out, for their last hoorah, you can even create mini celebration party by inviting some their friends over while providing these snacks with games and their favorite shows. With that being said, always make sure to help your loved one brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day to prevent cavities.

They Can Always Wear A Colorful Smile: Each time the braces are tightened some kids find it really fun to be able to change the color of their bands according to their preference or mood. Does you child have a favorite color or superhero color combo? Now is their chance to be reminded of it every time they smile!

How to Deal With the Pain: At this time, it is essential to help your child understand that there will be very minimal discomfort or none at all when braces are first applied to the teeth. There may be some irritation in the following days due braces rubbing on delicate areas inside the mouth and very mild pain after each time the braces are tightened. But there is no insufferable pain awaiting them at the dentist’s office. When it comes to actually getting braces on it will be an easy and painless process.

Handle The Bullies: It is imperative that you equip your child with the right tactics to get a handle on dealing with bullies long before they encounter them. First, if they are verbally teased with the famous and conventional “brace face” or “metal mouth” comments it is always best to IGNORE them and WALK AWAY. Immediately after encountering a bully, encourage your kids to stay strong by helping them to make the habit of saying positive things like “I will have straight teeth after this” and “I have temporary braces for a lifetime of great teeth”.

It may not be easy at first to experience this change of having braces but it is all about perspective and the bigger picture. The fact is that they are not nearly as painful as children imagine them to be. Bullies eventually fade into the background when properly dealt with and the foods he/she can’t eat now can be enjoyed later when the braces come off. As a parent your encouragement, support, and positivity are vital to make this journey a good one. By applying these simple tips you will certainly allow it to be an opportunity for character growth parent to child.

Adental Care has four offices in the Houston, Texas area and we have an experienced team ready to assist you with your questions or concerns. Our consultations are free, so please contact us at any of our locations below.