How to Take Care of Your Braces
So, you just got braces for the first time. You are excited but also apprehensive, wondering how your daily routine will be affected by these foreign intruders in your mouth.
If you have Invisalign, don’t worry! Your routine won’t change too much. All you have to do is remove the clear aligners. Then, you can munch on your favorite food or take a sip of your desired refreshment. Don’t forget to brush and floss your teeth afterward. You can brush and floss your teeth the same way you did before braces. And then, put your Invisalign aligners back on, so that they can work their magic in giving you the vibrant smile you deserve.
But if you have traditional or metal braces, then there is a little more work involved. After a few days of this routine, it will become second nature to you. See below for step-by-step instructions on how to brush and floss your teeth with metal braces. Remember: properly taking care of your braces is vital for achieving the best results, including a vibrant smile. Your braces and teeth stay in excellent condition throughout your treatment.
Brushing With Braces
Maintaining dental hygiene with braces can be challenging, but understanding the facts about braces and knowing how to take care of them effectively can make a big difference. To brush effectively with braces, start by selecting a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush designed for orthodontic care. Your orthodontist can give you recommendations on the best brushes on the market.
Begin by rinsing your mouth to loosen any food particles. Angle the brush at 45 degrees to clean around the wires and pins of the braces. Brush each tooth at the gum line using circular motions. Be sure to clean all surfaces of the teeth — the fronts, sides, and chewing surfaces. Finally, rinse thoroughly to remove any dislodged food or plaque. This step-by-step guide ensures your teeth and braces stay clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Flossing with Braces
Understanding key braces facts and learning how to take care of your braces properly is crucial for oral health. To floss effectively with braces, start by using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser designed specifically for navigating around braces. Thread the floss under the main wire before passing it between two teeth. Slide the floss up and down along the sides of each tooth and under the gum line, forming a ‘C’ shape around the tooth to ensure thorough cleaning. Gently remove the floss and re-thread it for the next pair of teeth. Repeat this process for each tooth, being cautious not to pull with too much force on the wires. This methodical approach helps maintain clean teeth and healthy gums throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Starting Your Braces Journey
From the initial consultation to the exciting day your braces are applied, we’ll support you at every step. Discover what to expect during your treatment and how our skilled orthodontic team can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Adjustments and Maintenance
Regular adjustments are key to your treatment’s success. We’ll help you manage any discomfort, dietary changes, and orthodontic emergencies smoothly. If you experience any discomfort or any issues, then please contact our office.
Understanding Treatment Duration
Understanding the duration of treatment with braces is vital, and it’s influenced by a range of factors. One key aspect is how well you take care of your braces. Proper maintenance can significantly affect the effectiveness and length of your orthodontic treatment. Regularly cleaning your braces and following your orthodontist’s instructions for care can prevent complications that might extend the treatment time.
It’s important to note that the average treatment duration for braces is typically between 18 to 24 months, but this can vary based on individual needs such as the severity of alignment issues and the type of braces used. Keeping up with scheduled adjustments and maintaining excellent oral hygiene are crucial steps in ensuring your treatment progresses as planned. Being proactive and committed to your braces care can help streamline your journey to a perfect smile.
Cost and Insurance Guidance
We clarify the costs associated with treatment, offer financing options, and explain insurance coverage to help you make informed decisions about your orthodontic care. Contact us to get clarity on the costs associated with orthodontic treatment and insurance assistance. Since we believe that the cost should not be a barrier to you or your child getting the perfect smile, we are here to make the process as seamless as possible.
FAQs
Get answers to common questions and other facts about braces, what to expect during treatment, and dispel any concerns or myths you may have about orthodontic care.
Braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They consist of brackets attached to the teeth and archwires that exert gentle pressure to move the teeth into proper alignment over time.
While you may experience some discomfort or soreness after getting braces or during adjustments, it’s generally manageable and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help alleviate any discomfort.
The duration of braces treatment varies depending on individual factors such as the severity of misalignment and the chosen treatment method. On average, treatment can last anywhere from one to three years.
Initially, you may need to adjust to eating certain foods and speaking with braces. It’s recommended to avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods that could damage your braces. As you become accustomed to them, these activities should become easier.
Typically, you’ll need to visit your orthodontist every 4 to 6 weeks for adjustments. These appointments are crucial for monitoring your progress and making any necessary changes to your treatment plan.
Proper oral hygiene is essential during braces treatment to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. You’ll need to brush your teeth and braces after every meal, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Additionally, flossing with braces requires special tools like floss threaders or orthodontic flossers to clean between the wires and teeth.
Yes, wearing a retainer is typically necessary after braces to maintain the results of your treatment. Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how often to wear your retainer and for how long.
Yes, you can continue participating in sports and playing musical instruments while wearing braces. However, it’s essential to wear a mouthguard during sports activities to protect your braces and teeth from injury. For certain instruments, like wind instruments, you may need some adjustment period to play comfortably with braces.
If you experience any issues with your braces, such as a broken bracket or poking wire, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. They can advise you on how to address the problem and schedule an appointment for repairs if necessary.
Facts About Braces
- Historical Origins: Braces date back to ancient times. Archaeologists have discovered mummified remains with crude metal bands wrapped around individual teeth, indicating early orthodontic practices.
- Inventor of Modern Braces: The modern system of braces was invented by American dentist Edward Angle in the early 20th century, who is also considered the father of modern orthodontics.
- Range of Materials: Today’s braces are made from a variety of materials, including metal, ceramic, and even high-grade clear plastic for near-invisible aligners.
- Not Just for Kids: While braces are commonly associated with teenagers, more adults are opting for orthodontic treatment thanks to advancements in discreet options like clear braces and Invisalign.
- Technological Advances: Modern orthodontics incorporates advanced technology such as 3D imaging and computerized treatment planning to customize braces and reduce treatment time.
- Impact on Oral Health: Braces do more than straighten teeth; they also help improve overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean, thus reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Colorful Choices: For those with traditional metal braces, the elastic bands that hold the wire in place come in a variety of colors, allowing patients to personalize their look.
- Treatment Time Varies: The duration of wearing braces can vary widely depending on the individual’s dental issues and the type of braces used, typically ranging from 18 months to about three years.
