Category Archives for Braces

What Happens During a Virtual Braces Consultation?

Virtual braces consultations are becoming increasingly popular because they’re convenient and easy. And with recent advancements in technology, an orthodontist can use photographs to determine the treatment you may need. This means you won’t have to sit in traffic or take time from work for an appointment. Instead, these appointments can happen in the comfort of your own home.

Here’s what you need to know before a virtual braces consultation and how it works.

Scheduling a Virtual Braces Consultation

The first step is scheduling an appointment. You can do this by finding an orthodontic practice in your area that offers virtual consultations. Once you’ve found an orthodontic office, you can give them a call or go online to schedule an appointment.

When you schedule your consultation, you’ll provide basic information about yourself. This includes your name, date of birth, and contact information. They may also request your dental history or x-rays. Once you have an appointment scheduled, you can move on to the next step.

During the Appointment

After you have an appointment scheduled, it’s time for your virtual braces consultation. The most important thing you’ll need is a set of recent pictures. These should be close-up shots of your teeth that show your smile. The orthodontist will tell you exactly what images they need for you to take.

Then, they will use these pictures to determine what treatment you may need. Depending on what they see during your virtual braces consultation, they may recommend braces or Invisalign®.

At this time, you should also bring up any concerns you have about treatment. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the process.

After Your Virtual Braces Consultation

Once your appointment is over, the orthodontist will give you a treatment plan. This will outline what they recommend for you and the next steps you need to take. The orthodontist may also provide additional information like estimated treatment time and cost.

In addition, they may also recommend that you come in for an in-person consultation to get updated x-rays. This is usually the case if they need to take a closer look at your teeth. If necessary, your orthodontist will ask you for clearance letter from your dentist that states that you’re in good oral conditions to get your braces on.

Then, it will be time for you to make a decision about treatment. You can either move forward with the recommended treatment plan or decide to do something different. Either way, your orthodontist will be there to help you make the best decision for your smile.

You Can Also Have Remote Dental Checkups Through Dental Monitoring

Dr. Yazji offers Anywhere Smiles®, a fully-integrated system through Dental Monitoring. DM uses artificial intelligence and by downloading the app on your phone and following your orthodontist instructions, you’ll be able to be monitored remotely without coming in to the office. All you’ll have to do is get a scan using your phone when your orthodontist sends you a notification. This means that no matter where you are, you can get in touch with your orthodontist. It’s like having your Invisalign® doctor in your pocket. Isn’t that cool?

Final Thoughts

Overall, a virtual braces consultation is quick and easy. It’s a great option if you’re busy and don’t have time to come in for an in-person consultation. And during the appointment, an orthodontist will get a good idea of your treatment options using your dental images.

If you’re considering braces or Invisalign®, check out our smile assessment to receive a preliminary diagnosis. With the smile assessment, Dr. Yazji can get an understanding of your needs and determine the right treatment for you. It’s also a chance to ask any questions you may have about orthodontics and the treatment process.

Braces for Everyone: The Benefits of Family Orthodontics

If you’re looking for orthodontics for the whole family, you’ve come to the right place! Orthodontics can help people of all ages and starting as early as possible is crucial. And with discreet treatment options like Invisalign® and lingual braces, everyone in the family can get the smile they desire.

Here’s how family orthodontics can help everyone stay healthy and happy.

Family Orthodontics Have Come a Long Way

In the past, many people believed orthodontic treatment was primarily for teens. But now, with advances in technology and discreet treatment options, orthodontics can treat patients of all ages. That’s good news for families!

The American Association of Orthodontists advises children to see an orthodontist by the age of 7. Seeing one early can prevent further problems and severe discomfort further down the road. However, even if you’re an adult or teenager, there are still treatments that can help you achieve a beautiful smile.

Discreet treatment options include:

• Lingual braces: These bond to the back of your teeth, making them virtually invisible.
• Invisalign®: This transparent aligner system is nearly undetectable, and you can remove them for eating and cleaning.
• Clear or ceramic braces: These braces are smaller and less visible than traditional metal braces.

Benefits of Family Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment has many benefits, not just for the patient but for the whole family. When everyone in the family is healthy and happy, it makes life that much better.

Some of the benefits of family orthodontics include:

Improved oral health

Orthodontic treatment can improve your bite and alignment, making it easier to brush and floss properly. This leads to better overall oral health for the whole family.

A boost in self-confidence

When you feel good about your smile, it shows! In addition, orthodontic treatment can give everyone in the family a much-needed confidence boost.

Saving Money and Time

When you take care of bite and alignment issues early on, it can save you money in the long run. Orthodontic treatment also prevents further damage to your teeth, which means fewer trips to the dentist (and less money spent)!

Finding a Family Orthodontist Who You Can Trust

When looking for an orthodontist for the whole family, it’s essential to find one you can trust. Here are some questions to ask if you’re unsure where to start:

• Do they have experience treating patients of all ages?
• Are they up-to-date on the latest technology and treatment options?
• Can they answer all of your questions in a way you can understand?
• Will they take the time to get to know you and your family?

The Bottom Line

Family orthodontics can help everyone in the family achieve a healthier, happier life. When you’re ready to take the next step, find an orthodontist you can trust. By alleviating bite and alignment issues early on, you can save yourself time and money in the long run.

At Yazji Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on being a family-friendly orthodontic practice. We offer a wide range of treatment options and use the latest technology to ensure that our patients get the best possible care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

The Importance of Rubber Bands for Braces

If you have braces, then rubber bands can be an important part of your treatment. They provide the extra force your braces may need to guide your jaws and teeth into the correct position. Plus, they can even speed up treatment and have many additional benefits.

Let’s go over the importance of rubber bands for braces and why you may need them.

What Are Rubber Bands Or Elastics?

Rubber bands, also known as elastics, are small rubber bands used in orthodontics. Although they are typically latex, an orthodontist can provide non-latex rubber bands if you have an allergy.

Rubber bands come in various sizes and strengths. Your orthodontist will select the correct specifications based on your personal treatment plan.

Do I Need Rubber Bands for My Orthodontic Treatment?

Not everyone will need the assistance that rubber bands provide. However, an orthodontist may recommend rubber bands if you have a bite issue or need extra force.

You may need elastics if you have:

• An overbite or underbite
• A crossbite
• An open bite
• Teeth that are difficult to move

Your orthodontist will carefully monitor your progress throughout treatment and determine if you need rubber bands later on. It’s not unusual for patients to need rubber bands as their treatment progresses.

The Benefits of Wearing Orthodontic Rubber Bands

Since rubber bands create extra force, they can help alleviate many of the issues caused by misaligned bites.

Not only do rubber bands improve the look of your smile, but they also improve the function. Rubber bands close gaps and align teeth, resulting in a better bite. This process helps you chew food more effectively and take better care of your teeth.

When you can close your mouth properly, you decrease your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. With routine wear, rubber bands can improve your dental issues quickly without unnecessary surgeries or equipment.

Caring for Your Elastics

If your orthodontist provides rubber bands during treatment, wear them as often as prescribed. Doing so will encourage your teeth to move into their proper position and improve your smile.

For best results, only take them off when eating, brushing, or flossing.

You should also avoid chewy or sticky foods as they can cause the rubber bands to stretch out or break. If your rubber bands break, replace them as soon as you can. Failure to do so may prolong treatment or hinder your progress.

Conclusion

If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, you cannot ignore the importance of rubber bands for braces. They may be necessary for your treatment but are not expensive or harmful. Instead, they help improve the look of your smile while reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Caring for elastics is simple, but you should follow your orthodontist’s instructions. If you have questions or need guidance, they will be happy to help.

At Dr. Yazji’s office, we understand having braces can be a confusing time. That’s why we try and make the process as easy as possible. Reach out to our office today to learn more about braces in Miami and Weston, Florida.

How Can My Orthodontist Adjust My Tooth Width? IPR Explained

If you’re using Invisalign® to straighten your teeth, you may wonder if interproximal reduction (IPR) is necessary.

Typically, IPR is not a requirement of Invisalign® or orthodontic treatment. However, there are some cases where IPR may be appropriate. Adjusting your tooth width can provide more space for your teeth to shift to achieve a balanced, beautiful smile.

Here’s what we know about interproximal reduction so you can decide if adjusting your tooth width is right for you.

What Is Interproximal Reduction (IPR)?

IPR is a procedure that slenderizes your teeth by reducing the enamel in between them. Slender teeth are more likely to stay in place after orthodontic treatment because they have more room.

To perform IPR, an orthodontist will use a handheld instrument to remove small amounts of enamel from between your teeth. An orthodontist can usually perform IPR in just one visit, and this procedure doesn’t require a lengthy recovery time.

What Are The Benefits Of IPR?

There are many benefits of interproximal reduction, including:

• A more balanced smile
• IPR can make closing your mouth easier
• Reducing the size of your teeth can make them easier to clean
• Less risk of tooth decay from crowding
• Improved speech impediment issues

In addition, IPR improves your smile by shaping your teeth to best suit your facial features.

Are There Any Risks Associated With IPR

While most orthodontists consider interproximal reduction a safe and effective procedure, there are some mild risks. For example, patients may experience sensitivity to hot and cold after IPR. However, since there are no nerve endings in your enamel, you shouldn’t experience any pain during the procedure.

It’s also important to note that IPR does not make patients more susceptible to tooth decay or gum disease. In fact, IPR can reduce the risk of tooth decay by making it easier to clean your teeth.

If you’re considering interproximal reduction, speak with your orthodontist about the risks and benefits.

Will I Need Interproximal Reduction?

Most people who are undergoing Invisalign® treatment will not need interproximal reduction. However, there are some cases where IPR may be appropriate.

For example, IPR can provide more space for your teeth to shift if you have jaw or misalignment issues. This can improve the overall effectiveness of orthodontics and keep you from needing further treatment.

After your orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will assess the pros and cons and decide if interproximal reduction is suitable.

The Bottom Line

IPR is a safe and effective procedure that can help improve the appearance of your smile. In addition, IPR can enhance the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment. This easy, routine procedure can provide more space for your teeth to shift and may be ideal if you want to achieve a balanced, beautiful smile.

An experienced orthodontist like Dr. Yazji can help you decide if interproximal reduction is suitable for you. Contact us to learn more about IPR and orthodontic treatment. We have three conveniently located offices offering orthodontic treatment in Miami, Brickell, and Weston.

Frequently Asked Questions about Orthodontic Treatment

Are you thinking about getting orthodontic treatment to correct your teeth and bite? If you’re considering braces or orthodontics, you may have a lot of questions. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about orthodontic treatment. We’ll discuss everything from how long you need treatment to how to take care of your braces.

So, if you’re curious about what to expect during or after orthodontic treatment, keep reading!

Do I Need Orthodontics?

If you’re thinking about orthodontics, you may wonder if you actually need it.

Typically, you may need to see an orthodontist if:

• You have crowded teeth
• You have gaps in your teeth
• You have an overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• You grind your teeth
• You have trouble chewing or biting food

However, an orthodontist can give you a definite answer. They will be able to assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment.

Am I Too Old for Braces?

No, you’re not too old for braces. In fact, many people have had great success with these treatments. Discreet treatment options like Invisalign® are great for older adults and teenagers because they aren’t visible like metal braces.

The earlier you see an orthodontist, the better. Postponing treatment can result in more severe dental issues later in life.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children see an orthodontist by age seven. However, this does not mean teenagers or adults cannot benefit from braces or other orthodontic treatments.

How Do I Take Care of My Orthodontics?

Taking care of your teeth is crucial if you get braces or other orthodontic treatments. Your orthodontist will give you guidelines for how to do this.

In general, you should:

• Brush your teeth regularly
• Floss daily
• Avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods
• Address any hardware issues immediately

Orthodontic treatments like Invisalign® are also easy to take care of. You simply remove them when you eat and brush your teeth as usual.

How Long Will I Need Braces?

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The amount of time you need depends on the severity of your dental issues.

Most people only need one to three years of treatment. However, more severe alignment or bite issues may require more time. An orthodontist can give you a more accurate estimate after they assess your individual needs.

How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?

The cost of orthodontic treatment differs depending on the severity of your issue and the type of treatment you need. In general, Invisalign® is more expensive than metal and ceramic braces.

Your orthodontist will be able to give you a more accurate estimate after they assess your individual needs.

Final Thoughts

Orthodontic treatment helps people of all ages with different dental issues. If you’re considering braces or other treatments, don’t hesitate to ask an orthodontist about your options. They can answer any questions about orthodontic treatment you have and make the best decision for your individual needs.

We hope this has resolved your questions about orthodontic treatment. If you have any other ones, contact us or schedule a consultation with Dr. Yazji. We’re always happy to help!

Spacers for Teeth: What You Need to Know | Orthodontist for Kids

If you’re getting spacers for teeth, there are a few things you need to know before you begin. Not everyone will need spacers, but if you do, it’s important to prepare and understand the process.

In this article, we will describe what spacers are, what they’re for, and how to prepare for receiving them. We will also cover the basics of taking care of your teeth while you have spacers.

What Are Spacers for Teeth?

With orthodontic treatment, spacers are pieces of metal or rubber placed in between your teeth. They have very small and only measure about a millimeter in width.

Spacers for teeth create more space for the brackets that braces use. So if you have crowded teeth or don’t have enough space between them, spacers can help make room.

Preparing for Spacers

During your consultation, your orthodontist will let you know if spacers are necessary for your treatment. If your orthodontist recommends spacers, the next step is to schedule an appointment to have them placed.

Once your spacers are in, you may feel some discomfort. However, this is common and will subside within a few days. You can take Tylenol and other over-the-counter pain medications if you have difficulty eating or feel uncomfortable.

What You Can Eat with Spacers

To avoid pain and soreness, eat cold and soft foods while you have spacers for teeth. This can include foods like soup, applesauce, mashed potatoes, ice cream, and yogurt.

Avoid certain foods with spacers, such as:

• Hard or sticky candy
• Chewy food like beef jerky
• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Gum

Essentially, avoid anything that is hard to chew or bite down on. Spacers and braces can make it difficult to eat these types of foods. Therefore, it’s best to steer clear until you have completed orthodontic treatment.

Maintaining Oral Health with Spacers

Resume brushing your teeth even if your mouth is sore in certain areas. Spacers will not move, so you don’t have to worry about them coming loose.

Use a soft toothbrush and gently brush around them. You may need a water flosser to help clean your teeth and gums.

During this time, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy will help reduce the risk of developing cavities. Plus, practicing good oral care habits will set you up for success once you have braces.

Final Thoughts

Spacers for teeth are small pieces of metal or rubber placed between your teeth to create room for braces. You may experience some soreness and discomfort while you have spacers. However, this is temporary and should go away within a few days.

To ensure your teeth stay healthy with spacers and during orthodontic treatment, brush normally and avoid sticky and hard foods. With proper care, spacers can help prepare you for braces and a beautiful smile.

If you are interested in learning more about spacers for teeth, Dr. Yazji is here to answer your questions. Schedule a consultation at one of our three convenient locations in Brickell, Weston, and Miami. We also offer virtual consultations for orthodontics.

The 6 Most Common Orthodontic Problems in Miami

In this article we’ll discuss the six most common orthodontic problems in Miami.

Although many people think orthodontics is only for children, it can actually help with many dental issues. Seeing an orthodontist will not only improve the look of your smile, but it can also improve your oral health.

1. Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth are one of the most common orthodontic problems. It’s also one of the most noticeable. When your teeth are crooked, it affects your self-esteem and makes you feel self-conscious. Crooked teeth are also harder to clean, often leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

As one of the primary motivators for orthodontic treatment, crooked teeth are often the reason people seek out an orthodontist. Thankfully, there are a few different orthodontic treatments that can straighten teeth, including braces and Invisalign®.

2. Underbites

When your lower teeth extend past the upper teeth, it’s called an underbite. Underbites can lead to many issues, such as mouth breathing, snoring, speech issues, and discomfort. Plus, an underbite can make it difficult to chew food properly, which can lead to indigestion.

An orthodontist can correct an underbite by moving the lower jaw into its proper position. Doing this will improve your oral health and make it easier to chew and enjoy food.

If you think you have an underbite, schedule an appointment with an orthodontist. This orthodontic problem is relatively common and easily corrected.

3. Gapped Teeth

Gapped teeth, or spaces between the teeth, are another relatively common issue.

While some people may not mind the gaps in their teeth, others may feel insecure about them. Additionally, food may get stuck between teeth, making them harder to clean.

Although this issue may not seem as serious, it’s crucial to have gaps in teeth checked out by an orthodontist. An orthodontist can correct gaps within approximately one to two years with treatment.

4. Impacted Teeth

Impacted teeth are often the result of baby teeth not falling out when they’re supposed to. When this happens, the permanent tooth may grow behind the baby tooth, resulting in an impacted tooth.

If not treated, impacted teeth can cause crowding and cavities and damage healthy teeth.

When caught early enough, an orthodontist can often treat impacted teeth without surgery. However, you may need surgery in more severe cases to correct the issue.

5. Overbites

Like underbites, overbites can be problematic. An overbite is when upper teeth jut past the lower teeth.

Although a slight overbite is normal, a severe overbite can cause speech problems, eating difficulties, and jaw pain. Additionally, people with overbites are more likely to suffer from cavities and tooth wear.

6. Protruding Teeth

Protruding teeth are when the teeth protrude too far forward. Genetics and bad habits during childhood, such as thumb-sucking, can lead to protruding teeth.

When teeth stick out too far, they’re more likely to get chipped or broken. Additionally, they are difficult to clean your teeth properly, leading to tooth decay and difficulty chewing.

Seeing an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Yazji can prevent protruding teeth from causing any of these issues.

Orthodontic problems: Final Thoughts

Orthodontic treatment improves your oral health and quality of life. Plus, it can prevent further problems from developing that can impact your daily living.

At Dr. Yazji Orthodontics, we offer a variety of orthodontic treatments, such as regular braces, clear braces, Insignia custom braces, WildSmile braces, 3M Incognito lingual braces, and Invisalign® clear aligners, to correct these orthodontic problems. In addition, Dr. Yazji offers early orthodontic treatment for children. Schedule a consultation today if you’re experiencing any of these issues. Your initial consultation is complimentary, so you have nothing to lose. Book yours now!

Can I Prevent My Kids from Needing Braces?

Braces for kids are very common so, don’t worry if your child’s pediatric dentist said you needed to take them to the orthodontist. As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. You want them to have a bright future and avoid any health complications that could arise.

One of the things that parents frequently worry about is whether their children will need braces.

Let’s discuss some ways to prevent your kids from needing braces and the benefits of early orthodontic visits.

Avoiding Problematic Behaviors

 There are certain things that you can do as a parent to help prevent your child from needing braces.

One of the most important things you can do is to help them avoid problematic behaviors like thumb sucking. This can be difficult, but you must try to break this habit early on.

You should also encourage good dental hygiene habits. This means teaching them oral care like brushing and flossing regularly. In addition, you can make it fun for them by letting them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste.

If you start these habits early, they’re more likely to stick with them as they get older.

When Braces Are the Only Solution

In some cases, braces may be the only solution available. This is often the case if there is a family history of dental problems.

If your child does need braces, there are some benefits to getting them sooner rather than later.

For one thing, they’ll have access to the latest technology. This means their braces will be more comfortable and less noticeable than ever before.

They’ll also be able to benefit from new treatment options like Invisalign®. This is an alternative to traditional braces that uses a series of clear aligners.

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Visiting an orthodontist during childhood can help you predict any problems your child might have in the future. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children visit an orthodontist by the time they are seven.

If left untreated during childhood, dental problems can lead to:

• poor oral hygiene
• tooth and jaw discomfort
• bite issues
• cavities and tooth loss
• bad breath

It’s essential to catch these potential issues early on and take advantage of new treatment options. This is often the best way to guarantee your child has a healthy and beautiful smile. Plus, it will save them from going through treatment later in life or developing severe issues.

Severe dental issues in adulthood are much harder to treat and also more expensive. By visiting an orthodontist early on, you can avoid these costly problems down the road.

Braces for Kids: Conclusion

If you want to prevent child braces, consider the things that you can do. You can stop some dental issues from developing by avoiding thumb sucking and promoting good dental hygiene.

You should also take advantage of early orthodontic visits to catch any problems early on. And if your child does need braces, there are many modern options available that can make the process much easier.

There are numerous benefits to early orthodontic treatment. If you think your kids might need braces, don’t wait to schedule a consultation with Dr. Yazji. The sooner you catch any problems, the better.

Celebrate National Smile Week with Orthodontics

National Smile Week is coming up on the second week of August, and we want you to be prepared! This occasion is a time to celebrate our smiles and all the joy they bring.

There are many ways to take care of your smile during this special time. If you are looking for a change, one of the best ways to do so is to get orthodontics.

Let’s go over the potential benefits of seeing an orthodontist and how to prepare for National Smile Week.

How Can Orthodontics Help My Smile?

An orthodontist can help improve your smile and turn it into something you want to share with the world. Whether you are looking to get braces or Invisalign®, your orthodontist will find the right fit for you. And, they will be able to give you all the information you need about different treatments.

Having a smile that you’re proud of is an orthodontist’s top priority. Now, with all of the advancements in orthodontics, several different treatment options are available. An experienced orthodontist like Dr. Yazji will find one that aligns with your personal smile goals and needs.

Additionally, orthodontics can help you by:

• Ensuring you have a healthy smile free of gum disease and tooth decay
• Helping you chew food properly
• Eliminating speech impediments
• Properly aligning your teeth and bite

To alleviate these issues, orthodontists offer a wide range of treatments designed to improve your smile, such as:

• Metal braces: Metal brackets and wires which gently realign your teeth over time.
• Lingual braces: Braces placed on the back of your teeth, making them virtually invisible.
• Clear braces: Clear or ceramic braces that blend in with your natural tooth color.
• Invisalign®: A clear aligner system that uses sets of custom-made trays to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.

If you are unsure which option is best for you, an orthodontist will help you select the proper treatment. And, they will help you achieve a smile you can proudly show off for future National Smile weeks to come!

Preparing for National Smile Week

Now that you know a few of the benefits of orthodontics, it’s time to start preparing for National Smile Week!

Here are a few things you can do to get ready:

• Keep taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly
• Stay on top of your dental checkups so you can catch any problems early
• If you already have orthodontics, keeping up with your treatment and caring for your teeth as prescribed

Conclusion

National Smile Week is a great reason to contemplate what having a great smile means to you.   If you are interested in elevating your smile, orthodontics can help.

Dr. Yazji offers several orthodontic treatments, so schedule a consultation and find out which one is right for you. We have three offices throughout South Florida in Brickell, Weston, and Miami, so please reach out today. We also offer virtual consultations for your convenience if you’re not able to come into the office.

Get Braces Before Going Back to School

If your child is about to return to school, now is the time to get them fitted for orthodontics. Getting braces before returning to school can help your child feel more comfortable and confident. It also gives them time to adjust to any discomfort and familiarize themselves with having braces.

Let’s go over some advantages of getting braces before returning to school. We’ll also provide ways to help your child adapt to this new change.

What to Expect During the Adjustment Period

The first few weeks of having braces may be uncomfortable as your child’s mouth adjusts to the new hardware. This is normal and will decrease within a few weeks. To help ease any discomfort, we recommend that patients:

• Eat soft foods
• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods
• Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges
• Rinse with salt water
• Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed

By getting your child braces early, you give your child a chance to acclimate to having braces in a low-stress environment. They’ll also have time to experiment with different foods and learn which ones are safe to eat with braces.

In addition, it’s a chance to learn how to clean their teeth and develop a good oral hygiene routine. This can help immensely since the first few weeks after getting braces are typically the hardest.

In addition, they may experience some discomfort and soreness. Therefore, having a comfortable setting at home can help them feel more at ease.

Tips for Taking Care of Braces While at School

If your child is worried about taking care of their braces, you can do a few things to help.

Firstly, a braces kit will give your kid everything needed to care for their teeth throughout the day.

This can include items such as:

• A toothbrush and toothpaste
• Orthodontic wax
• Dental floss
• Chapstick

They must also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help keep their mouth clean.

Remember, this can be a challenging time for your child, so be sure to offer support and encouragement. With a little time and effort, they’ll be adjusting to their new braces in no time.

Eating Soft Foods

In addition, make sure that your child is eating soft foods and knows which foods to avoid.

This includes foods like:

• Hard candy
• Chewing gum
• Nuts and seeds
• Popcorn
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables
• Chewy bread

Although this seems like a lot, having braces doesn’t mean your child must miss out on their favorite foods. There are still plenty of delicious options that are safe for them to eat.

Some soft food ideas include:

• Yogurt
• Soups
• Pasta
• Apple sauce
• Soft fruits
• String cheese

You may want to pack extra snacks and lunch items that are safe for them to eat.

Get Braces Before Going Back to School. The Bottom Line:

Overall, getting braces before returning to school can be beneficial for your child. It provides an opportunity to adjust to the new hardware and develop a good oral hygiene routine. Plus, it gives you time to figure out which soft food options work best for them.

Book your complimentary braces consultation here.