Whether the orthodontic patient in your life is eager for or dreading orthodontic treatment, it’s a good idea to prepare for braces with conversations about what to expect. Orthodontics are a big lifestyle adjustment and major commitment. Here are some of the most important topics to address before that smile gleams with brackets and wires.
1. Be Patient
Braces are a big change but remind your teen the awkwardness will fade. Any small lisp will correct itself quickly and discomfort caused by rough hardware will improve as soft tissue adjusts. Sooner rather than later, braces will simply be part of who you are.
2. Pack a Few Braces Kits
Prepare for braces with a kit of the most-needed orthodontic supplies – wax, toothbrush, toothpaste, flossing picks, rubber bands (if needed), and orthodontic floss. Keep kits in a locker, backpack, or car to tend to teeth and hardware when on the go.
3. Protect Your Hardware
Teen athletes who wear braces need a mouth guard to protect them during practices and games. Talk to your orthodontist about getting a new appliance made especially to protect braces and teeth.
4. Tweak Food Choices
If someone is an apple a day kind of person, for example, this lunch or snack choice needs to be cut up or softened, especially at the start of orthodontic care. Choose foods that don’t damage or get stuck in brackets, like soft sandwiches, eggs, pasta, steamed vegetables, cheese, smoothies, and soup.
5. Prep for a Backup Cleaning Method
One of the most important things any braces patient can do is drink water all day. Invest in multiple water bottles which are essential for hydration but also for neutralizing acids on teeth and braces when brushing isn’t an option.
6. Address All the Feelings
There is a mental and emotional adjustment when it comes to wearing braces. That gleaming smile does make you look different, and many patients are surprised to realize how good they look. Teeth move quickly and it’s noticeable how great a smile is going to be. Your teen will find comfort in their new circumstances and will even have fun brightening up their smile with colorful elastics.
7. Set Expectations
There are no shortcuts when it comes to braces – you need them for as long as you need them. Even your orthodontist can’t fully predict how long the treatment will last. Some patients need them for 12 to 18 months while others need double that time or longer. How fast your teeth move and how committed you are to your orthodontist’s instructions make all the difference.
8. Accept the Complaints
Reassure your teen that their braces will not always make them happy and there will be days when their mouth is sore or they’re feeling self-conscious or they’re tired of meticulously cleaning the hardware. It’s okay to not love the entire process but try to remain positive – the result is worth the effort.
Prep for Braces with Help from Your Woodinville Orthodontist
The team at Soleil Orthodontics is with every patient, every step of the way. From expanders to retainers to braces to Invisalign, we help our patients adjust to life with braces and make the experience enjoyable and positive. Schedule an appointment at our office in Woodinville, WA, to get started.
