Getting braces is an excellent idea, especially if you want to get your smile back. Having well-aligned teeth has a way of boosting your confidence and self-esteem. However, in order to reap all the benefits of having the braces on, it is vital to take good care of them. You need to be extremely committed to your daily oral routine. At first, it might seem overwhelming, but things will be easier when you get the hang of it. That said, here are a few tips that will help you take good care of your braces.
Brush and floss daily
If you were used to brushing only twice a day, you might need to double the number. Why so? This is so because braces can trap foods in between them, and leaving the food there might cause more dental issues such as plaque and tooth decay. Therefore, if possible, ensure that you brush your teeth after every meal. However, if it is not possible, make sure you rinse your teeth after every meal.
Moreover, make sure you use the right products to brush your teeth. You can ask your dentist more about this, and they will be more than happy to help you out. Also, ensure that you floss your teeth after brushing your teeth. Flossing helps to get rid of any food that might have stuck in between your teeth and your metal braces.
Avoid some foods
If you have the braces on, there are foods that you should avoid. This, however, does not mean that you will be limited. If anything, you will still get to enjoy even more foods, so fret not. Some foods that you should avoid include sugary foods, sticky or chewy foods. Examples of these foods include popcorns, hard candy, ice, carrots, nuts, etc.
Avoiding these foods is just for a while, and it is for a good course. Remember, eating sugary foods may cause tooth decay. This, in turn, means that you won’t get the results you look forward to.
Visit your dentist regularly
Lastly, you will need to schedule visits to your dentist after every 4-6 weeks. This way, your dentist will be able to examine your teeth and the braces. In case of any problem, such as a broken or loose piece, they will ensure that they sort it out.
After the appointment, you may feel some little pain due to the tightening. The good thing, however, is that it only lasts for a few days. If the pain continues for long, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Bottom Line
Putting on braces is a good step towards getting back your smile. However, how you take care of them plays a significant role in the outcome. If you want the best results, be sure to follow the tips mentioned above. At first, it may be a bit challenging, but remember the goal is to have the perfect smile and teeth. Besides, it’s just for a short time, and they will be off.