Treatments like braces and Invisalign are an excellent way to help your child get the straighter, healthier teeth they deserve. Unfortunately, the journey towards a straighter smile isn’t always smooth and pleasant. Your little one will likely experience some dental soreness and mouth irritation during the process, especially right after they start treatment and after having their braces adjusted. Here are some of the best ways you can help your child through these discomforts and others throughout their orthodontic treatment.
Keep Ice Packs & Cold Compresses Handy
Ice packs and cold compresses will help bring down swelling and numb discomfort for a time. If your child is feeling sore, try applying them to the outside of their mouth at 10-minute intervals. It’s a good idea to always have one ready in the freezer just in case!
Administer Over-the-Counter Medication, in Moderation
OTC pain relievers for children like Advil and Tylenol can also be helpful for managing discomfort in your child’s smile. However, it’s important that you always follow the dosing instructions on the packaging and administer judiciously.
Treat Them to Cold, Yummy Foods
Ice cream, frozen yogurt, and smoothies are a few tasty treats that can serve a dual purpose. For one, these cold items can ease inflammation and soreness. Additionally, a treat like this can help boost your child’s spirits if they’re feeling glum about their orthodontic treatment!
Distract Them After Adjustments
Periodic orthodontic adjustments are necessary, but can often result in soreness. You can help keep your child’s mind off the new discomfort by distracting them with something fun after their appointment, like taking them to the movies or out for ice cream.
Consider Investing In a Water Flosser
Water flossers come highly recommended by orthodontists and orthodontic patients alike. These flossing aids make cleaning around your child’s braces easier and more effective, and the cool splash of water will feel soothing as well.
Ask Your Orthodontist for Dental Wax
Orthodontic wax can be placed over any sharp or rough parts of your child’s braces (such as the brackets) to help protect the soft tissues from abrasion. This clear, biocompatible material is safe and easy to use, so make sure to ask your orthodontist for more if your child runs out.
Talk to Your Orthodontist If You’re Concerned
In rare cases, discomfort during orthodontic treatment could mean that there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed, such as a cavity or gum disease. If your child’s discomfort does not seem to be easing even after several days or simply if you’re concerned, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist! They’ll be able to determine the cause of the soreness and identify the best way to remedy it.
About the Practice
At Milton Orthodontics, our goal is to make it easy for everyone to get a straighter, happier, and healthier smile. Whether you or your loved one needs pediatric orthodontics, adult braces, or any treatment in between, Dr. Dennis Sherman and his team will be here to help every step of the way. They’ve helped countless patients correct their orthodontic issues, and they’ll be more than happy to give you personalized advice on how to make your treatment as comfortable and effective as possible. To learn more, they can be contacted online or at (617) 698-8883.