Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Are you troubled by the appearance of your crooked teeth? Do you have discomfort from a misaligned bite? Braces can change your smile. Here are six things you need to know about wearing braces.
6 Things to Know About Wearing Braces
- Start with a consultation. Ask all the questions you need before making the decision to wear braces. My team members will take x-rays and a series of photographs. I will walk you through the process of getting braces and what to expect. My team will review your payment options with you. We’ll address all of your concerns.
- Be patient. Each orthodontic case is different. Generally, braces are worn between 18 and 24 months. The length of time you wear braces is based on your specific needs. Follow the guidelines provided to you.
- Change your eating habits. There are certain foods you need to avoid during your treatment plan. You don’t want to damage your braces or your teeth. Maintain a healthy diet to provide all of the nutrients you need as you go through treatment. We will give you a list of the dietary restrictions.
- Keep your teeth clean. Brush your teeth several times a day, especially after you eat. Neglecting your oral hygiene causes food to get trapped in the brackets, causing bad breath and tooth decay. Always take a dental kit with you. Make it easy to maintain proper oral hygiene.
- Things to look out for. Loose brackets or broken wires can happen. You will experience some discomfort for several days after your braces are applied. Also, periods of discomfort may occur throughout your treatment. Stick to soft foods for the first few days of adjustment.
- Treatment is not over. After your braces come off, your treatment does not stop. You will need to wear retainers after your braces are removed. The type of retainers will depend on your treatment plan.
Braces change more than the appearance of your smile. Orthodontic treatment allows your teeth and jaws to function normally. If you’re ready for a consultation, call my office to schedule your appointment.
Yours in health,
Dr. Munoz
