Life With Braces – Important Information From an Orthodontist

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.

The facts about living with braces

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.

There are foods to avoid

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.

Braces can cause discomfort

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.

Teeth will loosen

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.

Taking care of the appliance is necessary

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.

Brushing teeth is important

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.

Playing sports is possible

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.

Follow the orthodontist's advice for a happy life with braces

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: http://www.hwangorthodontics.com or call Kathleen C. Hwang Orthodontics at (626) 425-9986 for an appointment in our Monrovia office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

How Retainers Keep Your Smile Aligned

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…

Braces Specialist: Your Path To Straighter 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…

6 Benefits Of Invisalign®

Invisalign® is a modern teeth-straightening option that serves as an alternative to metal braces. Invisalign eliminates the need for brackets and wires; instead, it uses a series of clear plastic aligners to realign the teeth. Although lots of individuals are aware of the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign, like a straighter smile, there are also health…

3 Teeth Straightening Treatments Or A Beautiful Smile

Are you considering your teeth straightening options? Read on to learn more. Imperfect teeth can lower self-esteem and prevent people from smiling naturally. With all the advances in orthodontics, there are more options for getting straighter, healthier teeth. Getting a teeth straightening procedure is well known for cosmetic reasons, but its health benefits are noteworthy…

Recent Posts

How Retainers Keep Your Smile Aligned

How Retainers Keep Your Smile Aligned

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…

Braces Specialist: Your Path To Straighter Teeth

Braces Specialist: Your Path To Straighter 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…