Brace yourself: what to know before and after getting braces
Taking care of your braces before, during, and after treatment is crucial for achieving the best possible results. Here’s a detailed guide by an experienced dentist on how to care for your braces at each stage of the treatment process.
Before treatment: preparation and care
Before your braces are put on, it’s important to prepare your mouth and teeth for the upcoming treatment. Here’s what you should do:
Complete any necessary dental work
Ensure any cavities or gum disease are treated before getting braces. Your orthodontist may also recommend teeth cleaning and possibly removing wisdom teeth if needed.
Get your teeth cleaned
A professional cleaning is essential to ensure that there is no plaque or tartar buildup before braces are placed. Healthy gums and teeth are vital for a smooth orthodontic journey.
Plan for comfort
Once your braces are put on, they may cause some discomfort. Prepare yourself for any soreness by having orthodontic wax on hand, which can help reduce irritation caused by brackets or wires.
It’s also helpful to have a soft diet in mind for the first few days after getting braces, as your teeth may be tender.
Understand your responsibilities
Your orthodontist will explain how to care for your braces, including brushing techniques and what foods to avoid. Be sure to ask any questions about how to maintain good oral hygiene with braces.
During treatment: daily care and maintenance
Once you have your braces on, maintaining good oral hygiene and following your orthodontist's instructions are key to achieving the best results. Here's what to focus on during treatment:
Daily oral hygiene
It is important to brush your teeth after every meal. Braces can trap food and plaque around the brackets and wires. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush thoroughly after every meal. You should also make sure to brush your braces themselves (not just your teeth) to remove any debris or plaque buildup.
Use orthodontic floss and floss threaders
Regular flossing is vital to remove plaque from between your teeth and around your brackets. Orthodontic floss or floss threaders make this process easier by helping you get the floss under the wire.
Use mouthwash
A fluoride mouthwash can help fight cavities and gum disease. Rinsing with mouthwash also helps to reach areas that brushing and flossing might have missed.
Follow dietary guidelines
Avoid sticky, hard, and crunchy foods
Foods like popcorn, chewing gum, caramel, and hard candies can damage the brackets or wires. Similarly, hard foods like raw carrots or tough meats can also put stress on your braces. Stick to softer foods and cut up harder foods into small pieces to avoid damaging your braces.
Avoid sugary drinks
Sugary drinks like soda or juice can contribute to plaque buildup and increase your risk of cavities. Opt for water as your main beverage.
Wear rubber bands and other appliances as directed
If your orthodontist has prescribed rubber bands, headgear, or any other appliances (such as a palate expander), make sure to wear them exactly as instructed. These appliances help achieve the desired bite alignment and will speed up the treatment process.
Handle discomfort
It’s normal to experience discomfort or soreness, especially after your braces are tightened. Over-the-counter pain relievers and eating soft foods can help alleviate this discomfort. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe pain, contact your orthodontist.
Attend regular checkups
You will need to visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments to your braces. These appointments are important for making sure that your braces are working effectively and that your teeth are moving in the right direction. Make sure to keep up with your scheduled visits.
After treatment: retainers and long-term care
After your braces are removed, it’s important to continue taking care of your teeth and maintain the results of your treatment. Here's what to focus on after your braces are off:
Wear retainers as directed
Retainers are an essential part of the treatment process. Once your braces are removed, your teeth may try to shift back to their original positions. Retainers help prevent this and ensure that your new smile stays in place.
You’ll likely be asked to wear your retainer full-time initially, then eventually only at night. It’s important to wear your retainer exactly as directed to avoid any relapse.
Maintain good oral hygiene
Even after your braces are removed, continuing to care for your teeth is crucial for preserving your beautiful smile. Continue brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You may also want to use an electric toothbrush or a water flosser to maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Regular dental checkups
Keep up with your regular dental checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will monitor your teeth for any signs of cavities, gum disease, or shifting. These visits are important to ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy after braces.
Follow-up appointments
After your braces are removed, you’ll still need to visit your orthodontist occasionally to check on your progress with the retainers and ensure everything is in place. These follow-up visits help ensure that your bite remains aligned.
Stay mindful of your diet
Even after your braces are off, try to avoid foods that could harm your teeth, such as sticky candies, chewing ice, or biting hard objects. Also, limit sugary and acidic foods that can contribute to tooth decay.
Consider aesthetic enhancements
If you want to further enhance your smile, discuss options such as teeth whitening or bonding with your orthodontist or dentist. After wearing braces, you may want to explore ways to keep your smile looking its best.
Conclusion
Taking care of your braces before, during, and after treatment is essential for achieving and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. Before treatment, ensure your teeth are in optimal health. During treatment, be diligent about hygiene and follow your orthodontist’s recommendations. After treatment, continue caring for your teeth and wear retainers as instructed to keep your smile perfect for years to come. With consistent care, you’ll enjoy the long-lasting benefits of your orthodontic treatment.