It is important that when your child goes on a dive everything fits as well as possible. This is even more important when they have braces installed. If a device like their mouth guard is either too loose or too tight, then this can lead to TMJ with braces. If they dive fairly often, then they will notice tension on their jaw joints. This not only makes it difficult to speak and eat but can result in future tooth loss that will need to be remedied through the installation of dental restorations. The stress and tension will usually go away but may cause lasting damage to your braces. It can take hours or even days for the pain to subside this and may feel like an eternity for a young child. Luckily, there are a few tips that you can use to help your child alleviate this discomfort.
Violet Leaf Tea
If your child is not really big on the strong scents associated with some teas, then they may be a huge fan of violet leaf tea. The herb produces a gentle aroma that is easy to mask with a little lemon and honey. In addition, violet leafs are packed with anodyne properties. These properties make it a powerful herb for pain relief. You can create a violet leaf tea for your child by soaking the leaves and root of the herb in hot water. Since your child needs the relief as soon as possible, only steep the herb for a few minutes. Add your child's favorite sweetener and allow them to drink it throughout the day. Refill their cup as your child finishes their tea.
Peppermint Tea
Your tea is probably more than familiar with peppermint since mint is used in desserts and foods. A peppermint tea has similar effects of a violet leaf tea. In addition, peppermint is filled with antibacterial properties that are great for fighting any inflammation the TMJ may have caused. Take fresh or dried peppermint leaves and steep them in hot water. The longer you are able to steep the peppermint, the better. You can give your child this tea without any sweetener or lemon. Encourage your child to hold the tea in their mouth for a few seconds before swallowing. Any amount that is left over can be used as an oral rinse.
The TMJ your child experiences after a dive can leave them in added pain when they are wearing braces. Therefore, use these tips to help them get over some of this discomfort. For more information, contact companies like Reed & Sahlaney Orthodontics, LLP.
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