Table of Contents

Introduction

Understanding the Braces Journey

What to Expect with Braces

The Role of Ortho South 

Preparing for Back to School with Braces

Communicating with Your Child

Packing a Braces-Friendly Lunch

Creating a Braces Kit for School

Navigating the School Day with Braces

Dealing with Discomfort

Managing Peer Reactions

Participating in Physical Activities

Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces

Brushing and Flossing Techniques

Regular Check-ups at Ortho South 

Balancing School and Orthodontic Appointments

Scheduling Appointments Strategically

Handling Issues

Supporting Your Child Emotionally

Building Confidence with a New Smile

Connecting with Other Kids with Braces

The Importance of a Positive Attitude

Reinforcing the Long-Term Benefits

Encouraging Perseverance and Patience

Exploring Options Beyond Braces

Understanding Invisalign®

Consultation with Ortho South 

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

Getting braces can be a big adjustment for kids, especially when they head back to school with a new addition to their smile. At Ortho South, located in Pelham, Alabama, Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed understand the unique challenges of orthodontic treatment, particularly for students. With over 25 years of dedicated service, Ortho South is committed to guiding families through the orthodontic journey with ease and expertise. This guide will provide tips and strategies to support your child with braces as they return to school, ensuring a smooth and confident transition.

Understanding the Braces Journey

What to Expect with Braces

The journey to a perfect smile begins with understanding what braces are all about. Braces are orthodontic devices that correct misaligned teeth and improve oral health. They apply gentle pressure to move teeth into the desired position gradually. While the idea of braces can be daunting for kids, knowing what to expect can alleviate anxiety.

The Role of Ortho South 

Ortho South provides comprehensive orthodontic care tailored to each child's needs. Our team, led by Dr. Boggan and Dr. Syed, ensures that every treatment step is explained and monitored closely. We offer traditional braces and Invisalign®, giving families options that suit their lifestyles and preferences.

Preparing for Back to School with Braces

Communicating with Your Child

Before the first day of school:

1. Sit down with your child and talk about their braces.
2. Explain how braces work and the importance of maintaining oral hygiene.
3. Ensure them that many kids wear braces and are not alone in this journey.

Encouragement and understanding from parents can significantly affect how children perceive their new braces.

Packing a Braces-Friendly Lunch

A well-balanced lunch that avoids sticky, crunchy, and hard foods is essential for children with braces. Consider packing soft foods like sandwiches, yogurt, applesauce, and cut-up fruits. Ensure your child has a water bottle to stay hydrated and rinse their mouth after meals.

Creating a Braces Kit for School

Prepare a small braces kit that your child can carry in their backpack. This kit should include a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental wax, and a small mirror. Encourage your child to use the kit after lunch to keep their braces clean and comfortable throughout the school day.

Navigating the School Day with Braces

Dealing with Discomfort

It's normal for kids to experience some discomfort when they first get braces or after adjustments. Teach your child simple techniques to alleviate discomfort, such as using dental wax to cover poking wires or rinsing with warm saltwater. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help when needed.

Managing Peer Reactions

Children with braces can be self-conscious about their appearance, especially regarding peer reactions. Encourage your child to be open about their braces and remind them that braces are a common experience many classmates share. Positive reinforcement and building self-confidence are key.

Participating in Physical Activities

Braces should not limit your child's participation in physical activities or sports. However, it's important to take precautions. Ensure your child wears a mouthguard to protect their teeth and braces during sports. Mouthguards are available at Ortho South for a comfortable and secure fit.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces

Brushing and Flossing Techniques

Brushing and flossing become even more important when your child wears braces. Teach your child the proper techniques to clean around the brackets and wires. An interdental brush can help clean hard-to-reach areas, and floss threaders make flossing easier.

Regular Check-ups at Ortho South 

Regular orthodontic check-ups are crucial for monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments. At Ortho South, we schedule routine appointments to ensure the treatment plan is on track. These visits are an opportunity to address any concerns and keep your child's treatment progressing smoothly.

Balancing School and Orthodontic Appointments

Scheduling Appointments Strategically

To minimize disruptions, we make every effort to coordinate orthodontic appointments with your child's school schedule. Should it be necessary for an appointment to occur during school hours, we recommend notifying the teachers in advance. While we make every effort to accommodate your scheduling needs, some appointments may still need to be arranged during school or work hours. Please note that we provide a school/work excuse for each visit to ensure that you are fully supported in managing these appointments.

Handling Issues

Occasionally, issues such as broken brackets or wires may occur. Educate your child on how to handle these situations temporarily and when to contact Ortho South for assistance. Having our contact information readily available is helpful. We are always here to help! Click HERE or call 205-664-4140 to reach us.

Supporting Your Child Emotionally

Building Confidence with a New Smile

Help your child see their braces as a positive step towards a beautiful smile. Celebrate milestones in their orthodontic journey, such as the day they get their braces or reach halfway through treatment. Encouraging your child to embrace their braces can boost their confidence and self-esteem.

Connecting with Other Kids with Braces

Encourage your child to connect with other students who have braces. Whether through school clubs, social media groups, or activities at Ortho South, building a network of peers who share similar experiences can be incredibly supportive.

The Importance of a Positive Attitude

Reinforcing the Long-Term Benefits

Remind your child that wearing braces is temporary and the benefits of a healthy, aligned smile will last a lifetime. Reinforcing the idea that braces are an investment in their future can help them maintain a positive attitude throughout treatment.

Encouraging Perseverance and Patience

Orthodontic treatment takes time, and progress may seem slow at times. Encourage your child to be patient and persevere through any challenges they encounter. Celebrate their dedication and commitment to achieving a healthy smile.

Exploring Options Beyond Braces

Understanding Invisalign®

For families considering alternatives to traditional braces, Invisalign® offers a discreet and flexible option. Invisalign® aligners are removable and virtually invisible, making them popular for older children and teenagers. Dr. Boggan and Dr. Syed at Ortho South are experienced in providing Invisalign® treatment, ensuring a customized plan that meets each patient's needs.

Consultation with Ortho South 

If you want to explore your personalized orthodontic options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Boggan and Dr. Syed. They will assess your child's orthodontic needs and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.

Conclusion

Navigating the school year with braces doesn't have to be daunting. With the right support and guidance from Ortho South, your child can confidently embrace their orthodontic journey. By understanding the process, preparing for challenges, and maintaining a positive outlook, your child can enjoy a successful school year while working towards a beautiful, healthy smile. For more information or to schedule an appointment, click HERE or call 205-664-4140. Smile on with Ortho South!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long will my child need to wear braces?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the individual case. On average, treatment with braces can last from 18 months to 30 months.

2. What foods should my child avoid with braces?

Your child should avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods such as gum, popcorn, nuts, and caramel. These can damage the braces and prolong treatment time.

3. How often should my child visit Ortho South for check-ups?

Regular check-ups are typically scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks. These visits allow the orthodontist to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.

4. Can my child play sports while wearing braces?

Yes, your child can continue playing sports while wearing braces. However, it's important for them to wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth and braces during physical activities.

5. What should I do if my child has a broken bracket or wire?

If your child experiences a broken bracket or wire, contact Ortho South for guidance. In the meantime, cover any sharp edges with dental wax to prevent irritation.