An orthodontist is the person who will fit you with braces. Now that you have them, you might be wondering how to take care of them. It is important to make sure that you are properly maintaining your braces. An orthodontist provides the necessary information about what it is like to live with this teeth straightening treatment.
Orthodontic treatment is a partnership between the orthodontist and the patient receiving the treatment. The orthodontist provides the expertise, the treatment plan and the braces themselves. However, it is the patient who is necessary for a successful treatment. Following the orthodontist’s instructions can mean the difference between failure and success.
Patients need to stay away from food that can damage the braces and lengthen treatment time. People in braces should avoid sticky foods, hard candies, very hard food and hard objects like pencils. Additionally, patients should cut meat from the bone, cut corn off the cob, remove pits from fruits and cut up hard fruits and vegetables.
When first wearing braces, a person might notice that their teeth and mouth are tender or sore. This is normal for someone who has just received the braces, and the discomfort will fade. An orthodontist may recommend over-the-counter pain medications for the first few days. It is common for a patient to have irritation in the lips, cheeks and tongue for one to two weeks. These areas need to toughen and acclimate to the braces. Orthodontists may supply wax to put over braces, which can lessen any irritation.
It is normal for teeth to feel loose and wiggly. The braces must first loosen the teeth, so they can move into the correct position in the mouth. Once the teeth are in the right spots, there will be no more looseness.
If the appliance becomes damaged, it can lengthen treatment time. The teeth and jaw cannot move into the proper position unless the patient wears the headgear, elastics, retainer and any other appliances prescribed by the orthodontist.
With braces, it is necessary to brush and floss every time a patient eats. This will keep a person’s teeth and gums healthy throughout the treatment time. If a patient does not understand the proper way to brush with braces, an orthodontist can demonstrate the right technique.
It is still possible for patients to continue playing sports even with braces. It is recommended that the patient wear a mouthguard to better protect the dental appliance and their teeth from any impact. If the appliance becomes damaged while playing sports, it is important to call the orthodontist immediately.
Having braces does not have to affect your life too much. Avoid specific foods and follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Then you will have a better chance at success with this teeth straightening treatment. Remember the facts about wearing braces and have some patience. Oh, and prepare yourself for a straighter smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.orangecoastortho.com or call Orange Coast Orthodontics at (949) 860-1231 for an appointment in our Laguna Hills office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Curious about orthodontic treatment? Read on to learn more. Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws make for a healthy and functional smile. Many people are lucky to have naturally straight teeth, but others require orthodontic intervention to correct overcrowding, gaps, or misalignment. In some cases, orthodontic therapy can extend far beyond repositioning the teeth in…
Wondering whether wearing retainers is really necessary? Read on to learn more. You know braces and aligners can help you get those straight teeth you desire, but retainers are the next step. These little devices will keep your teeth aligned and your smile beautiful for years.Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth…
Looking for a braces specialist? Read on to learn more. You might be hesitant to see a braces specialist if you already see a general dentist regularly. In some cases, patients have an individual situation that requires consulting a specialist. Generally, these professionals have more experience in orthodontics and a consultation with them might make…
Ceramic braces can be a great alternative to traditional metal brackets. Clear ceramic braces are a popular choice for adults and older teens who want something less obvious than traditional braces but who still want the benefits of a fixed system. Knowing the benefits of this bracket system will allow you to determine if it…
Orthodontic treatment involves the use of specialized devices to move teeth gradually and precisely in…
Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth straight after braces or aligners…
Orthodontists treat many different types of dental problems, including misaligned teeth, crowded teeth or gaps…
Many people find ceramic straighteners more comfortable than metal. They are less abrasive than some…
Although lots of individuals are aware of the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign®, like a straighter…
If you are looking for "an orthodontist near me," choose one who actively engages with…