Getting braces is a big step in your child’s dental health journey — and in their life. Braces can feel like a rite of passage for many kids and teens, and it’s normal to feel nervous at the thought of it.
Concerns about discomfort, changes in their appearance, and adjusting to braces are all common. As a parent, you play a vital role in helping your child feel supported and confident about this important milestone.
Walied Touni, DDS, MSD, and our team at Touni Orthodontics in Sunnyvale, California, specialize in traditional braces, and we’re here to help. Here’s how you can prepare your child for their experience.
One of the best ways to ease your child’s nerves is by helping them learn about braces, how they work, and what to expect during the process. If you’re not sure where to start, ask our team for details and take this as an opportunity to learn something new together.
You can begin by explaining how braces work to straighten their teeth and improve their smile over time. The initial adjustment period might involve some discomfort, but it’s temporary and manageable. You can also share stories about yourself, family members, or friends who’ve had braces and positive experiences.
Consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Touni to answer your child’s specific questions. Seeing the office, meeting our orthodontic team, and learning about the process in a friendly environment can help make the idea of braces less intimidating.
It’s natural for your child to feel nervous or self-conscious about getting braces. Let them know it’s okay to have these feelings and they’re not alone. Many kids (and even adults) go through the same emotions before starting their orthodontic journey. By validating their concerns and offering reassurance, you can help them feel more secure.
When the time is right, you can also highlight the benefits of braces. Wearing braces will give your child a healthier bite and straighter smile that will last a lifetime. Helping them understand the long-term results can make the temporary challenges feel more worthwhile.
Turn braces into something exciting by involving your child in the process and making it special. Consider taking them shopping for braces-friendly snacks, or make a tradition of doing something fun after each orthodontist appointment.
If they’re getting traditional braces, they may be able to choose the colors of their rubber bands at each appointment. This gives them something to look forward to and helps them feel a sense of control during their treatment.
If your child enjoys arts and crafts, consider creating a countdown calendar or scrapbook to track their progress with their braces. Celebrate milestones along the way, like the day they get their braces, their first adjustment, or when they transition to a new stage of treatment.
One of the main worries kids have about braces is whether they’ll be painful. Be honest but reassuring — explain that while their teeth may feel sore for a few days after getting their braces or following adjustments, it’s a manageable discomfort. Offer ideas for relief, like eating soft foods, using orthodontic wax, or taking over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
Teaching your child how to care for their braces can also empower them. Show them how to brush and floss effectively with braces and offer tools like floss threaders or water flossers to make it easier.
Last but not least, remember that your attitude can have a significant impact on how your child feels about their braces. Stay positive and supportive and remind them that the end result — a beautiful, confident smile — is worth the effort.
By talking openly, providing reassurance, and making the experience fun, you can help your child embrace their braces journey with confidence. Our team is here to support both of you every step of the way.
Learn more about preparing your child for braces and book your first consultation at Touni Orthodontics by calling our office or scheduling an appointment online today.
