7 Expert Tips For Dental Braces
We all want to have a beautiful smile, but some of us are not born with naturally good looking smiles. Fortunately, something can be done to improve your smile, regardless of the problem. Among the many problems affecting smiles, teeth misalignment is among the most common ones. The good thing is teeth misalignment can be fixed through orthodontic treatment.
In this blog, we will discuss one of the most common types of orthodontic tools, dental braces. Hopefully, the information will help you make an informed decision and take proper care of the treatment. But first, here are fast facts about dental braces:
Fast Facts About Dental Braces
- Dental braces treatment takes up to three years, depending on the problem.
- Braces treatment starts as early as seven, but it can be performed on adults too—however, the earlier the treatment, the better.
- Metal braces are not removable.
- Clear braces are removable, transparent, and most comfortable.
- Orthodontic treatment is safe, and there are no major risks associated with it.
- You can get braces at Greater Houston Dental Arts if you are looking for dental braces in Houston, TX.
Tips for Braces Maintenance
Hopefully, these tips will help you take the best care of your braces.
Brush and Floss Daily
Poor oral hygiene is the mother of most dental infections and cavities. This risk increases when you are using braces. One of the key things for maintaining proper oral hygiene is brushing your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day and flossing every night.
While brushing, make sure to clean underneath the braces thoroughly to ensure no food particles are left beneath them. Food particles react with bacteria in the mouth, leading to cavity-causing acids.
If you are using clear braces, just remove the braces and brush your teeth, how you have always done. Make sure to rinse the clear braces before putting them back.
Don’t Miss a Scheduled Dental Appointment.
Typically, you will need to visit the dentist every three months during the course of the treatment. Don’t miss any appointment because it is during these visits that the dentist will assess the progress of treatment and make any necessary adjustments. He will also provide you with customized advice.
Furthermore, he will conduct exams and cleanings at least once every six months to ensure your teeth are in their best condition. We are here for you if you are looking for braces in Houston.
Avoid Candies
Candies are sweet, but unfortunately, they are one of the leading causes of cavities. That’s why they need to be avoided as possible. Manage how your child takes candies and limit her intake. If she has to take, make sure she cleans her teeth about 30 minutes after taking the candies.
Mind Your Diet
You won’t need to change your entire diet just because you have braces, but it does not hurt being a little more careful. If you are reckless with what you eat, the braces can loosen or even break.
That said, avoid hard foods that will require you to bite into them like sugarcane, and some vegetables. You can still take them, but make sure to take them with care. Also, don’t use your mouth to bite nails, pencils, pens, or open bottle tops.
Tips For Managing Various Braces Problems
Braces are not the most comfortable, so expect some discomfort from time to time. Here is how to handle some of the most common discomforts.
Brackets Coming Off
If brackets come off, buy orthodontic wax in the nearest chemist and use it to cover them. You can also place sugarless gum on the edge of the brackets.
What if a Wire Breaks?
If that happens, take the wire out of your mouth to avoid swallowing it. Kindly note that a wire breaking happens often and it does not mean the treatment is failing.
Irritation
Irritation is not a common problem associated with orthodontic treatment, but it does happen to a few individuals. If it happens to you, place orthodontic wax on the irritating area and flatten it into a tiny ball. In most cases, that will help. If it doesn’t, talk to your dentist for an alternative solution.
A Dentist in Houston
If you are looking for braces in Houston, you are in the right place. We are open to all, and our services are of the highest quality. Book an appointment today and let us help you get the smile of your dreams.