Orthodontic treatment with braces can effectively realign your bite, straightening your smile and protecting your teeth from premature wear. Braces are typically a long-term treatment method. You may have your braces for up to two years, and you’ll want to be sure that you care for the braces and your teeth properly during that time period. If you know how to care for your braces, and you stay diligent, your experience will be much better. Here’s a quick guide to help you keep your teeth and braces in good shape throughout the duration of your treatment.
Cleaning Your Teeth While Wearing Braces
The hygiene of your teeth is always important, but it takes a little extra effort when you have braces. You want to avoid issues like decalcification and cavities during treatment, so cleaning thoroughly and consistently is crucial. During braces treatment, you should brush your teeth 3-4 times a day. Start brushing your teeth after meals and snacks to remove any debris from your teeth or your braces. Using an electric toothbrush can be especially beneficial since certain surfaces in your mouth may become even more difficult to reach. You should also floss daily to remove buildup.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Make While Wearing Braces
In addition to your cleaning regimen, you will also want to update some of your lifestyle habits during your braces treatment. There are certain foods that it’s better to avoid while wearing braces. These include foods that are sticky and crunchy. Sticky, chewy foods become difficult to clean, and crunchy foods can potentially cause damage to the braces, or break into pieces so small that they get stuck. You may experience soreness or tenderness in your cheeks and lips for the first couple of weeks after having your braces placed. This is totally normal, and shouldn’t cause concern.
If Something Feels Off, Contact Your Orthodontist
While soreness is normal during the beginning of braces treatment, damaged appliances are not. If a bracket comes loose, you should replace it as soon as possible. If a wire becomes loose or starts poking your cheek, tongue, or gums, you can trim it or place wax at the end of it. You can also schedule an appointment with your orthodontist to fix this issue. Bands and brackets do the important work of straightening and aligning your teeth, so if they become compromised or broken, talk to your orthodontist right away.
Do Your Child’s Teeth Need Braces?
Small cases of misaligned teeth may create strictly cosmetic problems, but a significantly misaligned bite can cause your teeth to wear down prematurely. If your child has an orthodontic alignment issue, you should consider braces. At North Spring Dental, we can diagnose alignment issues and determine the best course of treatment for each individual patient.
ABOUT YOUR SPRINGFIELD, OH DENTIST:
Dr. Afshan Ahmed and the team at North Spring Dental welcome you and your family to a different kind of dental care experience. Our practice is one in which you can rest assured that you will enjoy a relaxing, personalized visit. To find out more about our comprehensive general, orthodontic, and family dentistry services, call our dental office in Springfield, OH today at 937-399-3800.
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