Braces are often viewed as a rite of passage in many patients’ lives. They provide incredible benefits like straightened teeth and a corrected bite, revealing a beautiful smile once removed. You may have questions about how to best care for yourself and your braces during the orthodontic process. Mountain View Family Dental has expert staff who can answer all your questions about this process, from application to daily care and removal. Here are a few things we think you should know about braces.
1) No age restrictions
Preteens, teens, and adults of all ages are good candidates for braces. Some children may receive them earlier than their peers to correct new permanent teeth as early as possible, and some adults may choose to get braces later in life when it’s convenient for their lifestyle. But no matter when you get them, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about if your peers do not have braces. It’s your decision and your smile, so do what feels right for you!
2) Start with a consultation
Before your braces application appointment, you’ll meet one on one with our orthodontist to go over any questions and concerns you may have. Since you and the orthodontist will see each other frequently, it’s important you feel comfortable with them and trust in their expertise. At Mountain View Family Dental, our orthodontics team has experience treating a variety of patients. Rest assured that if you have questions, we’ve got you covered. Our orthodontist Dr. Brooks also speaks fluent Spanish, which is appreciated by many of our patients.
3) Metal braces are not the only option
Metal braces are the most common form of teeth straightening devices, and many people look forward to picking a new color for their bands at each visit. But if you prefer a more discreet option, Mountain View Family Dental also offers Invisalign® and ClearCorrect® aligners. These modern straightening methods use clear plastic trays to gradually move your teeth into a perfect alignment and provide the same great results as metal braces.
4) Teeth cleaning is more important than ever
Your orthodontist will ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned prior to applying your braces, but it’s up to you to keep up with regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings to ensure your braces stay clean and free of food debris. If food gets trapped in your braces, it can cause bad breath and tooth decay. Ask your orthodontist how to properly clean and floss with metal brackets to ensure your braces are not damaged during Cleanings.
5) Be careful when chewing
Chewing certain foods or objects can damage braces easily. To avoid a loose bracket, here are some habits to avoid:
- Chewing on pens or pencil erasers
- Biting into hard foods like whole apples, corn on the cob, jerky, or ice with your front teeth
- Eating foods that can get caught in braces, like popcorn or sticky foods like caramel or gum
Accidents sometimes happen; if you get a loose bracket, call us immediately. Depending on the severity, you may need immediate assistance, or we may have you wait until your next appointment to make the fix.
6) Mild discomfort is common
You may experience mild pain or discomfort during your braces application and in the first few weeks with your braces. It’s also common to have a sore mouth after changing bands or switching to new aligner trays. Over-the-counter pain medication is great for soothing any discomfort, as well as dental wax and eating soft foods like smoothies, mashed potatoes, and Jell-O.
7) Be patient
Some people need braces for just a few months, while others have them on for several years. Wherever you fall, be patient with the process and keep up with daily care. Your braces will become easy to manage with practice, and keeping them clean and healthy will become second nature. All your hard work will be worth it on removal day--once you see your new beautiful smile, you’ll see the amazing work braces can do!
Mountain View Family Dental is always excited to help new orthodontic patients start their journey with braces. Contact us today to learn more about your options and start on your path to a perfect smile.
