If your child’s dentist has recommended braces for a straighter smile, chances are you groaned at the thought, knowing the conversation with your kiddo might not be easy. Beautiful smiles take work and commitment, and there isn’t a single person who would say they regretted the transforming power of braces when it comes to straighter teeth. You and your dentist both know your child will be thankful in the long run, but for now, you need to know how to make the experience a better one for them. Keep reading to learn how you can do just that!
How to Make Wearing Braces Fun for Your Child
There’s no denying that there are definitely challenges that come with wearing braces, but they pale in comparison with the end result of a transformed smile that your child can be proud of for the rest of their life. Here are some simple things you can do to make the experience easier and more enjoyable for them:
Plan Ahead for Braces-Friendly Meals
It’s not easy telling a child that they can’t have their favorite treats, but when it comes to braces, it’s extremely important to monitor what your child eats. Certain foods like popcorn, hard candy, or sticky taffy and caramels can be detrimental to the upkeep of braces. Instead of restricting, plan ahead by researching a handful of braces-friendly options like soft brownies or cupcakes, pasta, soft fruits and veggies, ice cream, smoothies, and other treats that will be easy to clean off of their braces later on.
Get Involved and Lighten the Mood
There are songs to sing to help children learn how long to wash their hands, and you can apply the same practice to oral hygiene. Unfortunately, most children don’t exit the womb with a natural passion for brushing and flossing their teeth, and braces certainly don’t make it any easier. Try putting on their favorite song or TV show and engaging in it with them while you both take care of your teeth. Not only will it help distract them from the mundane practice, but it will also give them something to look forward to each day!
Create an Incentive
If your child is vehemently opposed to wearing braces, one of the best ways you can convince them to go through with treatment is to give them something to look forward to. Is there a place they’ve really been wanting to visit? Maybe it’s a gaming console or toy that they’ve been begging you for. You’ll have plenty of time to save up while the braces are on, and if they know they’ll be getting a prize at the end, you’ll both have a much easier time.
Braces don’t have to mean misery. It’s better to address your child’s smile and oral health at a young age so that you can help to set them up with good habits for the years to come. Not only will they have all of the self-confidence that comes with beautiful teeth and gums, but they will enjoy a better quality of life.
About the Author
Are you looking for top-notch pediatric dental care for your child? Dr. Roy Paulson and Dr. Ryne Paulson at Casper Children’s Dental Clinic are ready to provide the highest quality of treatment. For years, they have been giving children the gifts of straighter smiles and improved self-confidence. They are compassionate, knowledgeable, and highly trained. Are you ready to talk about braces for your child’s teeth? Request a consultation online, or give us a call at (307) 266-1997.