Its important to brush and floss regularly when you have braces so the teeth and gums are healthy during orthodontic treatment. Patients may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning. Adults with a history of gum disease should also see a periodontist during orthodontic treatment. Please watch the two videos below on the proper care of braces during orthodontic treatment.
For the first day or two soft foods are best. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. Remember that youll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as youre wearing braces.
When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for a few days. Take whatever pain reliever you normally take for headache or discomfort (no aspirin for kids!). The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated while you become accustomed to the braces. Well supply wax to put on the braces in irritated areas to lessen discomfort.
To successfully complete orthodontic treatment, the patient must work together with the orthodontist. The teeth and jaws can only move toward their corrected positions if the patient consistently wears the rubber bands as prescribed. Lack of cooperation and damaged appliances lengthen the treatment time so please follow instructions.