Kids Questions About Braces
What do braces feel like?
Initially, your mouth will be sore for the first couple of days, but you will be used to them by the end of the first week. Chances are your teeth may be a little sensitive for the first 2 days after your scheduled monthly visits as well. Overall, the only time you will ever be aware that you have braces on is when you get them adjusted by your orthodontist or if you get hit in the mouth!
What will my friends and classmates think?
Most classmates and friends are very accepting of braces for 4 simple reasons:
They may already have braces
They will get braces
They have already had braces
They WISH they had braces
Will, it hurt all the time?
Absolutely not! Braces make your teeth and maybe your gums sore only on the days you visit your orthodontist. This soreness only lasts 2-3 days.
Will I be able to play sports?
Of course! You can compete in all sports (i.e., football, basketball, volleyball, etc.) as long as you wear a mouthguard.
Will I talk funny?
No. Your braces will not affect the way you talk or the tone of your voice.
Will I have to wear headgear?
The headgear is a specially designed removable appliance that works by moving your upper posterior teeth (molars) further back. Whether or not you will wear it will depend on your age, which teeth are present at the time of treatment and the type of orthodontic problem you have.
How long will I have to wear braces?
It depends on your age and how much we need to fix. If your dentist starts you on Phase I Treatment when you are 8-9 years old, that will take 6-12 months. If you require full (Phase II) treatment later, it usually takes 24-27 months to complete. Remember, it’s very important that you cooperate with your orthodontist to help avoid problems that will keep your braces on longer.
Will I be able to chew gum?
Sorry, but no gum during your treatment. Gum can dislodge your braces, elastics, wires, etc., prolonging your treatment and compromising your result. On top of that, chewing gum consists of sugar that can be trapped behind the braces and cause tooth decay.
