Getting braces is a big step for any teen — one that can bring a mix of excitement, nerves, and questions. For parents, supporting your child through this transition means understanding what they’re experiencing and helping them build healthy habits that lead to great results.
If your teen recently started orthodontic treatment or is preparing for braces in Wilmette, IL, here’s what to expect and how to help them adjust with confidence.
The First Few Days: What’s Normal and What to Expect
After braces are placed, most teens experience some initial discomfort. This is completely normal and usually subsides within a few days. The mouth is adjusting to new appliances, and the teeth are beginning to respond to gentle pressure.
You may notice:
- Mild soreness or tenderness, especially when chewing
- Irritation of the cheeks, lips, or tongue from brackets
- A slight change in how they speak or eat
Soft foods, over-the-counter pain relievers, and orthodontic wax can help manage this adjustment period. Encouraging your teen to stay positive and reminding them that the discomfort is temporary can go a long way.
Building Healthy Braces Habits
Establishing good routines early on will help your teen stay on track throughout their orthodontic treatment. Braces require some extra care, and being consistent is key to avoiding delays or issues.
Encourage your teen to:
- Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily with a floss threader or orthodontic flosser
- Use fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel
- Carry a braces care kit with them for school or outings (toothbrush, floss, wax)
- Attend all scheduled adjustment appointments
Teaching independence in these habits can help your teen feel more in control of their treatment — and help reduce the chances of breakage or cavities.
Navigating Food Choices with Braces
One of the biggest changes for teens with braces is adjusting their diet. While many favorite foods are still on the table, others can damage brackets or wires — leading to discomfort or unplanned visits.
It’s best to avoid:
- Hard foods — like popcorn, nuts, ice, hard pretzels
- Sticky foods — like gum, caramels, taffy
- Chewy foods — like bagels or licorice
- Crunchy foods — like raw carrots or apples (unless sliced thin)
Instead, stock the pantry with softer snacks your teen enjoys. Smoothies, yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes, bananas, and soft-cooked veggies are all safe choices. Over time, choosing “braces-friendly” foods will feel second nature.
Social Confidence and Communication
Many teens worry about how braces will affect their appearance or speech. While it’s normal to feel self-conscious at first, most adjust quickly — especially as they see friends and classmates wearing braces too.
Let your teen know:
- Braces are incredibly common — they’re part of a normal stage of growth
- Any speech changes are usually temporary and improve with practice
- There are options like ceramic brackets for a more discreet look
- Their orthodontic journey is leading to a healthier, more confident smile
Positive reinforcement and encouragement can help ease social anxiety and boost self-esteem during this phase.
Sports and Activities with Braces
Braces shouldn’t stop your teen from enjoying sports, band, or other extracurriculars. In fact, with a few adjustments, they can fully participate in the things they love.
For athletes, wearing a custom or orthodontic mouthguard is a must. This helps protect both the braces and the inside of the mouth during contact sports. Most orthodontists can provide one that fits over brackets securely and comfortably.
For wind instrument players, there may be a brief adaptation period. Lip protectors or wax can reduce irritation, and many teens find that they adjust quickly after a few practices.
What to Do if Something Breaks
Despite best efforts, brackets or wires can occasionally come loose or break. If that happens, it’s important to stay calm and take the right steps.
Here’s what your teen can do:
- If a wire is poking, cover it with orthodontic wax
- If a bracket comes loose, avoid hard foods until it’s fixed
- Contact the orthodontist to schedule a repair appointment
Reassure your teen that accidents happen and can be fixed — and remind them that continuing good habits can help prevent future issues.
Supporting Your Teen Through Treatment
Braces are a team effort — and your support plays a big role in your teen’s success. While the orthodontist provides expert care, parents help reinforce daily habits and offer the emotional encouragement teens need to stay motivated.
You can support your teen by:
- Checking in regularly about how they’re feeling
- Helping them keep supplies stocked (wax, floss, etc.)
- Rewarding milestones like “no broken brackets” months
- Talking openly about their progress and celebrating small wins
Every phase of the journey brings your teen closer to a lifetime of confident smiles — and they’ll remember your support along the way.
Helping Your Teen Thrive with Braces in Wilmette
Braces are a big adjustment, but they’re also a powerful investment in your teen’s long-term health and confidence. With the right guidance, habits, and mindset, most teens adapt quickly and begin to take pride in their progress.
If your family is in Wilmette, IL and you’re exploring orthodontic treatment, Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics offers personalized care and support for teens at every stage of treatment — from the first consultation to the final retainer.
Schedule a free consultation today and give your teen the tools and confidence to smile through every step of their journey.