Blog in La Jolla, CA, and San Diego, CA

Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving a healthier and more beautiful smile but also comes with an adjustment period. Many children experience initial discomfort and have questions about how to properly care for their braces. Understanding what to expect can make the transition smoother if you're considering orthodontic treatment for your child. Life with braces in La Jolla, CA, and San Diego, CA, involves changes in eating habits, oral hygiene routines, and lifestyle adjustments. Still, the experience can be positive and rewarding with the right guidance by contacting us.

What to Expect When Your Child Gets Braces

The first few days after getting braces are often the most challenging as the teeth adjust to the new pressure. Some common experiences during this period include:

• Mild discomfort – It is normal for kids to feel soreness in their teeth and gums. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease the discomfort.
• Speech changes – Some children may experience slight speech changes while they adjust to the feeling of braces.
• Increased saliva production – Braces may initially cause excess saliva, but this usually subsides within a few days.
• Cheek and lip irritation – Brackets and wires can rub against the mouth's soft tissues, but orthodontic wax can provide relief.

Eating with Braces: Foods to Enjoy and Avoid

One of the biggest adjustments with braces is dietary changes. Certain foods can damage braces, while others are easier to chew and gentler on sensitive teeth.

Safe Foods:

• Soft fruits like bananas and berries
• Yogurt and cheese
• Mashed potatoes and soft-cooked vegetables
• Pasta and rice
• Scrambled eggs
• Soft bread and pancakes

Foods to Avoid:

• Hard candies and popcorn (which can break brackets and wires)
• Sticky foods like gum and caramel (which can get stuck in braces)
• Crunchy foods like chips and raw carrots (which can put pressure on braces)
• Sugary snacks that increase the risk of cavities

Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces

Keeping teeth clean while wearing braces prevents cavities and gum disease. Proper brushing and flossing techniques can make a big difference.

Brushing Tips:

• Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush to clean around the brackets and wires.
• Brush after every meal to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup.
• Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and protect against cavities.

Flossing Tips:

• Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to clean between teeth and under the wires.
• Water flossers can be a helpful alternative for children who struggle with traditional flossing.
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to keep gums healthy and reduce plaque.

Dealing with Common Braces Issues

Children with braces may occasionally experience minor problems. Knowing how to handle these situations can help prevent unnecessary discomfort.

• Loose brackets or wires – If a bracket or wire becomes loose, cover it with orthodontic wax and contact a pediatric dentist in La Jolla, CA, and San Diego, CA, for a repair.
• Poking wires – If a wire is irritating the cheek or gum, using the eraser end of a pencil to push it back or covering it with wax can provide relief.
• Soreness after adjustments – Each time braces are tightened, mild soreness is normal. Eating soft foods and using a cold compress can help.

How to Keep Kids Motivated During Their Braces Journey

Wearing braces requires patience, but parents can help keep kids motivated with a few simple strategies:

• Set milestones – Celebrate small achievements, such as completing a certain number of months with braces or following good oral hygiene habits.
• Encourage good habits – Reward children for brushing and flossing regularly to make oral care feel less like a chore.
• Show progress – Taking before-and-after photos can help children see how much their teeth improve.
• Use fun accessories – Let kids choose colorful rubber bands to personalize their braces and make the experience more enjoyable.

Visiting the Pediatric Dentist for Regular Checkups

Regular orthodontic visits are essential for ensuring that braces work correctly and teeth are shifting as planned. A pediatric dentist in La Jolla, CA, and San Diego, CA, will monitor progress, make necessary adjustments, and address concerns. These visits also provide an opportunity to reinforce good oral hygiene habits and answer any questions about life with braces.

The End Result: A Healthy, Beautiful Smile

Although the journey with braces requires some adjustments, the results are well worth the effort. By following proper care routines and working closely with a pediatric dentist, children can achieve a straight, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.

If your child is about to start their orthodontic journey or is currently adjusting to life with braces in La Jolla, CA, and San Diego, CA, remember that patience, consistency, and support will help them confidently navigate this experience. Braces are a temporary step toward a lifetime of beautiful smiles!

To schedule an appointment with us today, visit Seaside Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, located at 10549 Scripps Ranch/ Poway Pkwy Suite E, San Diego, CA 92131, and 875 Prospect St #202, La Jolla, CA 92037. Call (858) 271-4200 for bookings and consultations and (858) 551-9700. Please visit our official website today to learn more about our various services.