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LIFESTYLE WITH BRACES
You may have read about certain types of trade name braces that claim they will get your treatment done faster. We feel these claims are misleading. Every case in orthodontics is different and treatment time is merely an educated guess. Every case should be treated as meticulously possible. Extremely difficult cases may take longer because there are so many problems to correct. We will make every attempt to complete your case as soon as possible, but with ideal results. It’s important for you to know how to properly take care of your braces throughout your orthodontic treatment to achieve the best results possible.
Foods To AVOID With Braces ?
- The most important foods to avoid are:
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- Hard Candies
- Gum
- Ice
These will increase the change of breakage and greatly prolong treatment.Popcorn and nuts can get in between your teeth and cause infection.Cut corn off the cob and slice fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots.Remove the meat from ribs and chicken to prevent breakage.
Foods You CAN Eat As Is, With Braces
- Some reasons for delayed treatment time are:
- Dairy – soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks.
- Breads – soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts.
- Grains – pasta, soft cooked rice.
- Meats/Poultry – soft cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats.
- Seafood – tuna, salmon, crab cakes.
- Vegetables – mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans.
- Fruits – applesauce, bananas, fruit juice.
- Treats – ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake.
Take Care Of Your Appliances
Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment process, so be sure to take care of all your appliances. Your teeth and jaws can only move into their correct positions if you consistently wear the rubber bands, retainer, or other appliances prescribed by your doctor.
About Braces
Mini Metal Braces
We use mini metal braces in our practice. Mini stainless steel brackets are 30% smaller than customary orthodontic brackets. These brackets are actually constructed of a stronger grade of steel to account for their smaller size. Mini metal braces are as effective as traditional braces, yet less obvious. Patients with mini metal braces appreciate the improved brushing and flossing capabilities they provide, as well as increased comfort.
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Brushing And Flossing Your Teeth With Braces
When you have braces, it’s very important to brush and floss after every meal in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your treatment. If you need help choosing the right toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss, please ask us and we can help you choose the right products for your teeth and your appliance.
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Retainer Care Instructions
- Wear your retainer at all times, until the doctor instructs otherwise.
- Take your retainer out when eating, and always put it back in its case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants).
- Clean the retainer thoroughly at least twice a day with a toothbrush. Use toothpaste and room temperature water. Efferdent or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used as well. (Do not soak over nite)
- When your retainer is not in your mouth, it should ALWAYS be in its case and out of reach of pets. Pets love to chew on them!
- Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. This is only temporary, you will get used to them very quickly.
Separators or Spacers
Separators are little rubber doughnuts that may be placed between your teeth to push them apart so that orthodontic bands may be placed during your next appointment. The separators will be removed before we place the bands. Separators do not mix well with sticky foods, toothpicks, or floss.
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When you first get your braces, you may notice that your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal and we promise your mouth will not be sore forever! Soreness caused by braces is due to the gentle movement of the wires within your brackets. To relieve the pain, we recommend dissolving one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water. Swish this solution in your mouth for just a couple of minutes (do not swallow the saltwater). This will soothe the cheeks, lips, and surrounding tissues. If you feel pain or pressure, we feel Ibuprofen works best if approved by your physician.
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