Getting braces can be a big adjustment for children, especially as they also prepare to return to school. With the pressure of making friends and fitting in, along with the discomfort of braces, it can make for a stressful time.

However, there are a few ways to help your child adjust to braces and school, making the transition a little easier.

1. Be Supportive

One of the most important things you can do for your child is to be supportive. Let them know that getting braces is completely normal, and that they will get used to them over time.

Remind your child that this is a temporary phase and that the end result will be worth it. Let them know that you are there for them if they need to talk or need help handling any challenges that come up.

2. Prepare for Discomfort

Braces can be uncomfortable, especially in the first few weeks. Your child might experience soreness, tenderness, or even pain as their teeth and mouth adjust to the braces.

Prepare your child for this by telling them what to expect and giving them advice on how to manage the discomfort. Encourage them to take over-the-counter pain relief medication if needed, and provide soft foods for their first few meals after getting the braces.

3. Help Them Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is extremely important when it comes to braces. Your child will need to take extra care when brushing and flossing to ensure that their teeth and braces stay clean.

Show them how to brush and floss properly, and remind them to do it after every meal. Make sure they have the right tools, such as a soft-bristled toothbrush and interdental brushes. Help them schedule regular dental check-ups to keep their teeth as healthy as possible.

4. Focus on Healthy Eating

While getting braces doesn’t mean your child can’t eat their favorite foods, it does mean that they’ll need to avoid some that could damage or dislodge the braces or brackets.

Focus on healthy eating during the transition, such as soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t damage the braces, and encourage your child to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid sticky or hard candies and foods, and crunchy food such as popcorn or hard chips. This might require a little more effort and meal planning, but it will make the transition less stressful for your child.

5. Encourage Them to Participate in School Activities

Socializing is a crucial part of school life, and getting braces shouldn’t stop your child from taking part in school activities.

Encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities that interest them such as school clubs and sports, and attend school dances, even if they are feeling self-conscious or a bit insecure. Encourage them to be confident and assertive, to use their voice to express their feelings and thoughts.

6. Seek Advice

If your child is struggling to adjust to braces or is experiencing pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to seek advice from their orthodontist. They are the experts and will be able to offer help and support throughout the process.

Your child might require more frequent adjustments or even a new kind of braces, so it’s important to be honest and open about any issues that arise.

7. Don’t Neglect Self-Care

Getting braces and starting school can be a stressful time. Make sure your child takes time for self-care and activities that they enjoy. Encourage them to read, take a walk, listen to music or anything that will help them relax.

It will help them deal with any stress that they are going through, as well as give them a break from the routine of school and appointments.

8. Make Time for Quality Time

Your child might be feeling overwhelmed or self-conscious at first, so regular quality time with you and other close family members is crucial. Talk with them about their feelings and encourage them to share openly.

Remind them that they are loved and supported. Create some special bonding time by doing things that you both enjoy like watching a movie or playing a board game.

9. Celebrate Progress

Getting braces can be a long process, usually lasting several years.

It’s important to celebrate your child’s progress, even if it’s just for little milestones such as their first orthodontist appointment or when their teeth begin to shift. Acknowledge their hard work and the patience they have shown during the process. Celebrating their progress will encourage them to keep up the good effort and to be proud of their accomplishments.

10. Look to Other Braces-Wearers for Inspiration

One way to inspire your child is to look to others who have undergone a similar experience and successfully made it through.

There are forums, YouTube channels and support groups available where children or teenagers with braces can share their stories about the challenges they faced and how they overcame them. Let your child interact with others who are going through the same experience, encourage them to ask questions and create some sort of connection between them and the people they talk to can have a positive impact.

Summary

Getting braces and starting school are both major changes in your child’s life, but they don’t have to be stressful.

By being supportive, preparing for discomfort, focusing on oral hygiene and healthy eating, encouraging your child to participate in school activities and self-care, making time for quality time, celebrating progress, and finding inspiration in others who have undergone a similar experience, you can help your child through the transition. Remember to seek advice from an orthodontist whenever necessary, and most importantly, be there for your child every step of the way.

With your support, they’ll successfully navigate this adjustment period and come out even stronger on the other side.