Life With Braces | Orthodontic Dictionary | Braces First Aid
Life With Braces
- Modern orthodontic appliances are designed to have smaller and smoother tooth attachments. This minimizes the display of metal as well as reduces irritation to the adjacent soft tissues. However, when the braces are initially placed, the surrounding tissues may temporarily become irritated. If this occurs, we will provide you with protective wax which can be placed on the braces in the area causing the problem.
- Orthodontic treatment involves the use of gentle forces to move teeth and correct the bite. These forces are produced when the braces or removable appliances are "adjusted" or "tightened". Your teeth may be sore for a short time after an orthodontic adjustment. Chewing on sugarless gum or a plastic bite wafer immediately following an adjustment seems to reduce the duration of the discomfort. Motrin, Tylenol, or other similar analgesics may also be helpful.
- Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic appliances do not cause tooth decay, but they do make it more difficult to keep your teeth clean. We will instruct you on the proper brushing and flossing techniques to use with braces. We request that our patients brush after each meal and floss at least once a day. Water irrigating devices are also helpful, although their use is not essential.
- Foods high in sugars should be minimized during orthodontic treatment. If "sugary" foods are eaten, then the teeth should be brushed soon afterwards. Avoid gum and soda pop containing sugar. Sugarless gum and diet drinks or juices should be substituted.
- Please keep carbonated sodas to a minimum! The 'fizz' in sodas also creates carbonic acid that can decalcify the enamel of your teeth and cause permanent scars.
- Ice, popcorn, hard French bread crust, hard and sticky candies, and nuts should be avoided as they can damage the appliances. Foods such as apples, carrots, and celery can be eaten, but they should be cut into small pieces and chewed on the back teeth. Corn on the cob, spare ribs, and other meats on bones should be cut off prior to eating.
- Habits such as fingernail biting, pencil chewing, etc. should be eliminated. Picking or poking at the orthodontic appliances also should be avoided. These habits can cause loose or broken braces, which adds to treatment time.
- Orthodontic appointments are usually scheduled once every 5-7 weeks. It will be necessary to schedule some of these appointments during school or work hours. The California Legislature has passed statutes which permit students to be excused from school for dental appointments. We will do our best to avoid scheduling most appointments during school or work hours.
- Your first orthodontic appointment will include a "Patient Orientation". At that time we will go over oral hygiene techniques, care of the orthodontic appliances, and other helpful hints to make your treatment as pleasant and comfortable as possible. If you ever have any questions or problems during your treatment, please give our office a call.