Dentists are able to offer a wide range of orthodontic appliances for young children and teenagers. Although removable aligners can be great for adults, they still often prefer to use fixed braces for children.
They do provide a high degree of precision and are excellent for correcting more complex orthodontic problems. There’s little doubt that orthodontics can be great for helping a child achieve straighter and attractive teeth and a nice facial profile.
Wearing fixed braces does require a bit of commitment as they must be kept thoroughly clean during treatment. However, there are certain problems that you may encounter. It can be nice to be aware of them so you know how to deal with any issues that arise during teeth straightening.
Common Problems with Braces
Braces can initially feel a bit uncomfortable. When they have just been fitted or adjusted and the teeth are being forced to move a bit more than before. Any discomfort should soon settle down and age-appropriate over-the-counter painkillers can help control it.
If your child’s discomfort continues then please contact your dentist for an appointment as they can adjust it to make it more comfortable.
Many parents have questions about braces, if you do, talk to your dentist, they can answer any questions you may have.
If your child likes to play sports, then dentists highly recommend they have a mouth guard. Damage during sports is a common reason for braces breaking during treatment. Please contact your dentist about any breakages to your child’s brace as it will need to be professionally mended.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease. It can develop if a child has difficulty cleaning around their braces or is less than diligent about home oral care. The gums can become red and swollen due to inflammation and they might begin to bleed during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is reversible but please, do ask for help if your kid develops these symptoms so they can take action to help clear up this condition preventing any lasting damage.
Tooth Sensitivity
Some tooth sensitivity is normal after a brace has just been adjusted but if it continues then please talk to your dentist. Tooth sensitivity can also occur if gums begin to recede during treatment. This exposes the tooth roots which are not covered in tooth enamel and as a result, they are more sensitive to hot or cold. Gum recession can occur as a result of poor oral hygiene and where the gums become irritated due to the presence of plaque and tartar.
Halitosis
Halitosis or bad breath is often due to poor oral hygiene. It is more common during orthodontic treatment because braces can easily trap food particles. Bacteria feed on these food particles, creating an odor.
You will find your dentist and all pediatric dentists can offer lots of great advice on cleaning and look after braces. Of course, they are always there to answer any questions you might have during treatment. They can also offer dietary advice as it is important to avoid very hard or sticky foods while wearing fixed braces.
Emma started writing at the age of 14. As the years passed she studied many fields including health, research and a variety of writing styles. Today she is a writer of health and wellness, technology, pet products and fashion articles, poetry, short stories, as well as children's stories.