If you have recently begun orthodontic treatment with traditional braces, you may be wondering what to expect. Here are some tips for new braces patients.
Maintain Your Oral Hygiene
Perhaps one of the most important things to keep an eye on during your braces treatment is the health of your teeth and gums.
Because braces are adhered to the surface of the teeth and are connected with wires, some patients may find it a bit difficult to thoroughly brush. What’s more, is that the brackets and wires may cause food and bacteria to become trapped against the teeth.
In turn, these factors can lead to an increased risk of decay. Be sure to thoroughly brush your teeth at least twice daily, and invest in a specialized floss pick to clean the tight spaces between the brackets and wires.
Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods
Sticky and hard foods can get caught in the brackets or wires, leading to tooth decay and may also cause the brackets or wires to break. It’s best to avoid these foods to promote the health of your braces and teeth.
Expect Some Discomfort
When you first place your braces inside the mouth, it is normal to experience some discomfort. No worries; this is very normal and a sign that your braces are doing their job.
Over time, your braces apply pressure to shift the teeth into their correct places. This method is very effective, but it may cause some discomfort when you have your braces placed and tightened.
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To combat any discomfort you may feel, try snacking on some cold and soft foods like yogurt, ice cream, or applesauce. Over-the-counter pain relief will also help.
Attend All Of Your Appointments
During your orthodontic treatment, it is absolutely crucial that you attend all of your appointments. During these appointments, your orthodontist will inspect the health of your teeth, gums, brackets, and wires.
They will also use this time to ensure that your treatment is progressing as it should. If they discover that changes should be made to the treatment plan, they will incorporate these changes right away.
When you miss your regularly-scheduled orthodontic appointments, your dentist will not have the opportunity to check your progress or make any changes that are needed. In turn, this may lead to issues with damaged brackets or wires, decayed teeth, or treatment that does not progress as it should.
Best Braces in Encino and West Hills
For the best orthodontic treatment in Encino and West Hills, California, trust in CaliSmile Orthodontics.
For over 17 years, Dr. Amir Dehghan has strived to provide the very best orthodontic and cosmetic dental care to his patients in Los Angeles county. He proudly leads our team of experts to provide the very best braces treatment in Encino and West Hills.
We operate out of beautiful and modern dental offices in both Encino and West Hills, California. Give us a call anytime at (310) 710-6527 or fill out our online appointment request form for a comprehensive consultation in one of our Los Angeles county orthodontic offices.
Check out our before & after gallery!
