Life with Braces
Adjusting to Life with Braces
Are you or your child ready for a healthy, straight smile? Do not Google, “where is an orthodontist near me?” Instead, choose the high-quality care and trusted experience at Wigal Orthodontics. We create individualized solutions to move the teeth into their correct positions while also improving the bite. This allows you to make a true investment in your oral health and your confidence. While on your journey to a straight smile, there are some adjustments to your life. Here is what you can expect when living with braces.
Caring for Your Braces
Oral hygiene is vital while wearing braces to reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth discoloration. It is best to brush and floss your teeth after every meal while paying careful attention when cleaning around the brackets and wires. During your oral hygiene routine, it is important to:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least two minutes. You may find an electric toothbrush cleans more thoroughly.
- Use a gentle, circular motion when cleaning your teeth. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
- Floss at least once a day using a high-quality dental floss. As an alternative to traditional floss, we recommend using one that is designed for braces.
- Consider using an interdental or interproximal brush to clean between the wires and brackets.
What Not to Eat
While wearing your braces, there are a few foods you need to avoid, like popcorn, peanuts, and hard candy. It is also best to avoid:
- Hard or chewy breads, rolls, or bagels.
- Sticky foods, like gum or taffy.
- Small foods that can get stuck in the teeth or braces.
- Cut fruit and vegetables into small pieces instead of biting into them.
Caring for Your New Smile
After your braces are removed, it is time to protect your investment. You need to wear a retainer and visit our office regularly to prevent your teeth from moving back into their previous positions. For 6 to 12 months, it is best to wear your retainer continually to allow your gums and alveolar bone tissue to heal to hold the tooth roots in place.
While using a retainer, you need to care for it by:
- Brush your retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste.
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating.
- Rinse your retainer with water before placing it back into your mouth.
- Use a soaking solution to sanitize your retainer as needed.
- Do not expose your retainer to excessive temperatures.
- Keep it in a protective case when it is not in your mouth.
Invest in a Beautiful Smile
At Wigal Orthodontics, we are happy to give you the healthy, straight smile you deserve with braces in Newark. We explain the process and what you can expect to ensure you make the most of your treatment. If you have any questions about life with braces, we are only a phone call away. Contact our office today!