Getting braces is an exciting step toward a confident, healthy smile—but it can also come with a few challenges along the way! That said, it’s completely normal for kids to experience minor issues as their mouths adjust to life wearing braces. The good news is, most of these problems are easy to handle at home or by calling their orthodontist. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common issues that kids with braces might face, along with how they can be prevented or treated.
1. Soreness After Getting Braces (or After Adjustment Appointments)
When braces are first placed, or when they’re tightened during regular check-in appointments, your child’s teeth might feel sore for a couple of days. This is a sign that the braces are doing their job, though, and moving the teeth into their proper positions. Luckily, it’s only temporary, but to help your child manage their discomfort, encourage them to eat soft or chilled foods. They can also take over-the-counter pain relievers as instructed.
2. Irritation from Brackets and Wires
Sometimes the brackets or wires can rub against the inside of the lips or cheeks, causing irritation or small sores. This often happens right after the braces are placed, but it can occur again from time to time. Thankfully, it’s something that can easily be remedied with orthodontic wax, which your child’s orthodontist will give them when they begin treatment. It can also be purchased at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
3. Broken Brackets or Damaged Wires
Sometimes, a bracket can come loose after eating something crunchy or chewy, or if something hard is bitten into, it’s even possible for one of the archwires that connect the brackets to become bent or damaged. In these situations, it’s best to contact your child’s dentist rather than trying to fix things on your own. However, a loose wire can be gently tucked back into position until you can get to the orthodontist’s office.
4. Getting Food Stuck in Braces
This is one of the most common (and annoying) parts of having braces; food particles and debris have the tendency to become stuck around or underneath the brackets and wires. This is an inevitability with braces; however, having your child regularly brush after every meal is the best way to ensure this doesn’t lead to cavities or other oral health issues that may cause setbacks. Be sure they’re taking a small toothbrush with them to school so that they can brush after lunch!
Most problems that your child will encounter with their braces end up being minor and easy to manage, but don’t hesitate to contact their orthodontist if any of these issues are causing pain or discomfort, or if there’s damage to the braces.
About the Practice
Under the talented leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy, Dr. Sam Alkhoury, and Dr. Nina Khedkar, our team here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics has served families in Randolph and the surrounding communities for several years. We proudly offer a wide variety of orthodontic services for children of all ages, including traditional braces. If you have any questions about the blog or need to contact us to schedule an appointment for your child, please reach out online or by phone for more information or assistance. Telephone: (781) 767-7200.