Ten Hygiene Tips for Kids With Braces

Every parent should teach their child the importance of performing the recommended oral hygiene practice twice daily. This is particularly crucial for children wearing braces because they may be more susceptible to specific oral health issues.

Early intervention often begins when a child is between the ages of seven and nine. The jaw’s ability to support permanent teeth is aided by the initial stage of treatment. The teeth’s alignment and harmony with the lips, tongue, and underlying jaw structure are ensured in the second stage. If your child is currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, our team has provided some tips to help make sure their oral hygiene stays in good standing! 

Place oral care items in easily accessible areas to the child:

Your child will be reminded to brush their teeth if you leave supplies like their toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss out in the open. It will act as a visual warning every time they enter the restroom that it’s time for oral hygiene!

Brush Without Elastics:

The braces’ elastic bands may make it difficult for your child to wash their teeth and may make the procedure take longer. It’s crucial that your child always takes their elastics off before brushing as a result. This also ensures that the elastics retain their durability and require less replacement.

Brushing and Flossing Carefully:

Orthodontic therapy, especially when braces are used, increases the likelihood of food particles becoming lodged in various locations. It’s critical that your child understands this and spends the time cleaning their appliance, teeth, and tongue properly. To aid in the release of those difficult-to-release food particles, flossing becomes even more crucial.

Rinsing:

The removal of any loose food that may have lingered in your child’s mouth after brushing is aided by rinsing, which is crucial. Your child can decide whether to rinse with water or a mouthwash that one of our dentists suggests at Sunlake Dental.

Double check After Performing Dental Hygiene:

As soon as your child has finished brushing and flossing, encourage them to check inside their mouth. In this manner, they can inspect the quality of their dental hygiene as well as any imperfections in their orthodontic device.

Extra Care While Eating:

Ensuring what your child eats while wearing orthodontic devices can save many trips to the dentist and overall maintain good hygiene. ‘’Chewy’’ foods such as gum or candy should be avoided as it can get lodged into cracks and crevices of the braces where your child may not be able to reach with a toothbrush and floss. Hard foods such as crisp apples of crackers should also be avoided as they can damage the devices in your child’s mouth.

Stay On-Track With Dental Appointments:

Children’s mouths and teeth formation change rapidly at young ages, and even faster when devices such as braces are placed. It is crucial to keep note of any changes in the physical changes your child’s teeth encounter through the journey of dental correction. At Sunlake Dental, we make sure to keep detailed charts and evaluations of scans and procedures to ensure your child is progressing well with their orthodontic devices!