Will it take time to adjust to your new braces? Absolutely! However, you will be back to your usual self in no time! We are here to help throughout the entire process from braces placed to braces removal and retainers. Below are some tips to ensure a better orthodontic experience.
Most patients continue to use the same type of toothbrush as before braces. Should you use an electric toothbrush or waterpik? It can’t hurt, but is not necessary. Having braces may mean a few extra minutes spent brushing and flossing each day, but with 1440 minutes in a day, we’re sure you can find some extra time to keep your pearly whites fresh and clean!
When brushing, make sure to brush all tooth surfaces and focus on the space between the braces and your gums. Brushing should take 2-3 minutes each time, and we strongly recommend brushing at least twice each day.
Flossing will be tricky at first, but we will show you a few tips and tricks to make your life easier. Try to floss daily using a floss threader and stick to the waxed floss.
GOOD NEWS…You will still be able to eat most of the foods you love even with braces! Your first few days after braces are placed, you’ll want to stay with softer foods as your teeth may be tender (think pasta, soup, scrambled eggs, pudding, yogurt, oatmeal, and yes maybe even ice cream!).
Hard and chewy foods as well as sugary foods need to be avoided or kept to a minimum. If you have to snack on those types of foods, you must be careful so not to break a brace or damage the wires. Limit sugary drinks as well as these can cause cavities around your braces.
These issues can occur from trauma to your mouth, eating certain foods, or sometimes saliva contamination as we prepare your teeth for braces. For broken braces and poking wires, dental wax is your best friend! Dry the area, place a small piece of wax over the offending area, and give our office a call so that we can get you comfortable as soon as possible.
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