Braces have helped teens and adults straighten their teeth for many years. While the latest innovations may have changed the type of braces on the market, it continues to be an effective orthodontic treatment that can provide lifelong results. If you or your child will be getting braces in the future, here are some things that you should know.
It’s More Than Cosmetic
Orthodontic treatment with braces will provide you with a straighter and more aesthetically pleasing smile. However, this is not the only reason to get braces. The treatment corrects spacing and alignment issues, some of which can impact your ability to eat food and properly care for your teeth.
Need Good Dental Health
Before braces can be placed on your teeth, you need to be in good dental health. This means that any cavities need to be filled and your teeth need to be professionally cleaned. It can be complicated and difficult to address dental health concerns while undergoing orthodontic treatment. This is why you will need to address these dental concerns first before starting with braces.
Food Limitations
There will be some foods that you will not be able to eat while wearing braces. This includes hard, sticky, or tacky foods that would either get stuck in braces or break the wires. Your orthodontist will give you a comprehensive list of foods to avoid while wearing braces. By sticking to this list, you'll prevent many urgent and last-minute appointments to the orthodontist because of broken wires.
Mouthguards
If you are involved in a sport or athletic activity, you will need to wear a mouth guard to protect your braces during play. Not only will a mouth guard protect your braces from being damaged from accidental force during gameplay, but it will also protect your sensitive gums and mouth from getting caught in the braces. If you are actively participating in athletics, be sure to let your orthodontist know so they can give you the best advice about what extra steps are necessary to protect your braces and mouth.
Must Brush Teeth Well
Wearing braces can make it difficult to brush your teeth. However, this is not an excuse for poor dental hygiene. In fact, it is more important than ever to keep your teeth clean. This includes flossing. Your orthodontist can give you advice on how to properly brush and floss your teeth while wearing braces. Sometimes tools such as water picks and interdental brushes can help to remove small food particles from between your teeth.
Braces can have a significant positive impact on your life. While this particular orthodontic treatment may take a few years to complete, it's results can last a lifetime. Call Smith Orthodontics at (937) 431-0947 to schedule a consultation to discuss braces. We have successfully treated patients of all ages with a variety of orthodontic treatments.