Introduction
Wearing braces is not just a matter for adults or teenagers. It’s a question of health, well-being, and self-confidence. Despite some myths, living with braces is not a lifelong sentence of discomfort or pain. With a few tips and good practices, this orthodontic journey can be safe and comfortable.
Adjusting your dental hygiene
When you wear braces, oral hygiene becomes an absolute priority to maintain good oral health and ensure the success of the orthodontic treatment.
-
Thorough brushing: With braces, brushing must be more careful and longer than usual. It is recommended to brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles that may get stuck in the braces. Don’t forget to brush both your teeth and the braces, using a soft-bristled toothbrush like Y-Brush to avoid damaging the appliance.
-
Using dental floss: Dental floss becomes an essential ally when you wear braces. It can reach areas that a toothbrush cannot clean, especially under the wire of the braces. There are dental flosses specially designed for brace wearers, as well as small interdental brushes that can be helpful.
-
Mouthwash: An antiseptic mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria and prevent gum problems, such as gingivitis, which can be more common in brace wearers.
Adjusting your diet
When you wear braces, certain foods should be consumed with caution or avoided to prevent damaging the appliance or causing stains on your teeth.
-
Hard or sticky foods: Hard foods like apples or raw carrots should be cut into small pieces before eating to avoid breaking the brackets. Sticky foods like caramels or gummy candies should be avoided as they can get stuck in the braces and be difficult to remove.
-
Sweet and acidic drinks: Drinks like sodas or fruit juices are high in sugars and acids that can promote the appearance of stains on teeth and enamel erosion. It’s best to consume them in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
-
Beneficial foods: It’s good to favor foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as dairy products, to strengthen teeth, as well as foods rich in vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables, for gum health.
By adopting these habits, you will contribute to the success of your orthodontic treatment and ensure optimal dental health throughout your journey with braces.
Regular visits to the orthodontist
Regular follow-up with your orthodontist is an essential part of your orthodontic treatment. These appointments not only allow checking the progress of the treatment but also making necessary adjustments to your braces.
-
Progress evaluation: At each appointment, the orthodontist will examine your mouth and teeth to assess how the treatment is progressing. They will evaluate if the teeth are moving correctly and at the right pace.
-
Adjustments to the appliance: Depending on the type of braces you wear, periodic adjustments may be needed to continue applying the right pressure on your teeth. These adjustments, although sometimes uncomfortable at the moment, are crucial for the success of the treatment.
-
Answers to your questions: Regular appointments are also an opportunity for you to ask questions about your treatment, express concerns, or report problems. The orthodontist is there to help and advise you throughout your treatment.
Managing minor pain and emergencies
Wearing braces can sometimes cause discomfort or pain, especially after the appliance is fitted or after adjustments. However, there are ways to manage these inconveniences.
-
Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can help manage pain. Natural remedies, such as rinsing the mouth with a warm saline solution, can also provide relief.
-
Orthodontic emergencies: If a part of your braces breaks, detaches, or if you experience intense pain, it is important to contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. While waiting for your appointment, you can use orthodontic wax to cover sharp parts of the appliance that might hurt your mouth.
Staying on track
Orthodontic treatment is a journey that requires patience and perseverance.
-
Patience: Tooth movement is a slow process and it can be frustrating not to see immediate results. However, each day with your braces brings you closer to your goal.
-
Perseverance: It is crucial to follow all your orthodontist’s recommendations and not neglect your oral hygiene. This includes wearing the braces for the recommended number of hours, following cleaning instructions, and attending all follow-up appointments.
