Getting braces is a time-tested way to straighten your smile and correct a bad bite. But sometimes treatment can have a few bumps along the way. Here are a few common issues that patients encounter when wearing them, and what you can do to help your child cope if they do!
Tissue Irritation
Whether it’s a cut, a sore, or just general irritation, sometimes your child’s braces wires or brackets may literally rub them the wrong way. This can cause irritation on the cheeks, lips, or tongue. If they are experiencing any discomfort due to a poking wire or bracket, cushion the offending area with dental wax, and speak to your orthodontist for further instructions. Wires that are too long can be easily trimmed, so there’s no need to suffer in silence until your next regular appointment.
Chapped Lips
Chapped lips are common with braces because not only can the equipment itself rub against them and cause irritation, but it can also cause them to dry out because they are open more frequently from your teeth taking up more space. If your child is experiencing peeling or cracking, be sure to stock up on lip balm and leave it in their backpack, bedroom, and keep a tube in your car or purse for when they’re with you outside the home.
Loose Bracket
Sometimes if your child isn’t careful, they can loosen a bracket while eating, especially if they’re eating something on the avoid list. Should theirs come off, call your orthodontist as soon as possible to have it reattached. A loose bracket can seriously delay treatment progress or cause their teeth to backtrack, so time is of the essence.
Broken Rubber Bands
Should one of the rubber bands around your child’s brackets break, do not attempt to correct this yourself at home. Contact your orthodontist at your earliest opportunity to schedule an appointment to have it replaced. Though it may not seem like a big deal, these bands are very important.
Demineralization
Demineralization appears in the form of white spots on the teeth and is caused by mineral loss underneath the tooth enamel. It can be restored with a remineralization treatment, professional teeth whitening, or veneers. To prevent it, make sure your child is brushing well around their brackets and avoiding foods that are highly acidic.
Loose or Mobile Teeth
It is common for permanent teeth to feel loose during orthodontic treatment. This is completely normal, and in fact necessary because your child’s teeth need to move to become properly aligned. If this happens, remind them not to panic, and to not wiggle the tooth with their fingers or tongue. The teeth will eventually stop moving and will not fall out. This is why it’s important to wear a retainer after treatment, as it will help hold them in place until they have had time to set into their new places.
Remember, orthodontic treatment is a journey that is full of many twists and turns. While it’s easy for your child to feel like they’re the only one experiencing weird side effects, the truth is that many of them are very common, and nothing to worry about!
About Our Practice
At Main Street Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Danville, our team of skilled orthodontists and our pediatric dentist understand that treating kids is a little different than working with adults. That’s why we work hard to help parents educate their children about their oral health and what to expect from their orthodontics.
If your child needs braces, we’d love to meet your family and discuss the best options for a straighter smile. To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us today at 925-575-8878.