Braces: Questions and Answers for Kids
Kids, if you need braces, we know you’ve got questions. We've got answers! This special section of the Just4Kids Teeth website is reserved just for you. In this section, you'll find answers to all kinds of questions about teeth, braces and dental care, all written just for you. If you've got a question for Dr. T. or anyone else on our staff, send it to us and we'll post the answer in the Kids FAQ Zone. CLICK HERE to send your question.
What's it like to have braces?
For most kids, braces aren't a big deal. Your mouth is usually sore for the first week after the braces are put in. Also, your mouth will be sore when the braces are tightened. Eventually, you'll get so used to the braces, you'll hardly notice them.
Will braces cause sores in my mouth?
When you first get your braces, you may get a few sores on your lips. If you rinse the sores in warm salt water, the sores will heal up in a week or two. If your lips hurt a lot during the first week, try putting wax on the braces to prevent them from rubbing.
What can I take to ease the pain?
Ask your parents to get Anbesol, Orabase or Amosan. These over-the-counter medicines will help. You may also take Tylenol or Motrin.
How long will I have to wear my braces?
It's different for every person. It depends how much your jaw needs to grow and how much your teeth have to move.
Will my friends laugh at me when I get braces?
It depends on who your friends are. Chances are most of your friends will end up with braces, too. You can all laugh at each other!
Will braces make it hard to talk?
No. You can talk, sing, yell, tell stupid jokes--in other words, act like normal. Braces will not stop you from having fun. Just try not to get punched in the mouth. When you have braces, getting punched in the mouth really hurts! Sometimes your orthodontist may need to put in a gadget that gets in the way of your tongue. After it's first put in, you may have trouble talking for a day or two. Then you'll get used to it and be able to talk just fine.
Can I still play games and sports if I have braces?
Yes. Play tag, football, basketball, baseball or anything that doesn't involve getting hit in the face, like boxing. Go tubing. Go skiing. Play monopoly. Just try to not get hit in the mouth. Make sure your face isn't in line with any baseballs, footballs or dodge balls headed in your direction.
Can I eat when I get braces?
We're big fans of eating! When you get your braces, you can eat most of the things you love. Since your mouth may be sore after the braces are first put on, you may want to try eating softer foods for the first few weeks.
Can I chew gum with braces?
We don't recommend it. The gum can get caught on the braces and cause problems. The sugar in the gum can get trapped behind the braces and cause cavities. Are there any foods I can't eat when I have braces? ~ Hard, sticky, gooey or crunchy foods are pretty much off limits. Caramel, taffy, peanut brittle can stick on your braces and pull them off your teeth. Crunchy foods like carrots, apples and hard bread can also cause problems and it's usually best not to eat them.
What happens if the braces come off?
The staff will put them on again. This isn't a big deal, but if it happens a lot, your orthodontic treatment will take longer.
Is there any chance that I will be able to hear the radio on my braces?
So far, no patients have ever reported hearing the radio on their braces. If you do, CLICK HERE and tell us about it.