Taking care of teeth becomes more difficult after having braces installed on your teeth. First, you may need to visit an orthodontist on a monthly basis. The treatment course may last for several years, and initially, wearing them can make you feel very uncomfortable. Learn how to take care of your teeth and look great with braces in Phoenix AZ by following the tips below.
When eating with braces
For the first few days, it is advisable you avoid hard foods. To protect the braces every time you eat and as long as you are wearing them, you should avoid the following foods:
* Chewy foods such as licorice
* Crunchy foods like ice
* Sticky foods like gum
* Hard foods such as candy
* Foods you need to bite into like carrots and corn on cob
* Chewing hard things like fingernails, pens and pencils
General soreness
The first time braces are put on, you will most likely experience some soreness in the mouth and teeth, which is tender while biting for about five days. Mouthwash and warm salt water can help to relieve some of the discomfort. Should the tenderness be too intense, an aspirin should be more than sufficient. The tongue, cheeks and lips can also become irritated as they harden and become accustomed to surfaces of braces. Placing wax on your braces should help to ease this.
Loose teeth
This is a natural part of the treatment, which is entirely normal. The teeth are loosened first so they are movable but will later become rigid in their corrected positions.
Loose band or wire
The band or wires come loose occasionally. If the wire protrudes, push it back with a blunt instrument under the archwire. Call your dentist’s office and book an appointment in order to check on and repair the appliance. If a piece comes off, it is vital to save it and take it to the dentist’s office.
Care of braces in Phoenix AZ
To complete the treatment plan successfully, it is vital for the patient to work with the orthodontist. Jaws and teeth can only be moved towards their corrected positions through consistently wearing braces. Damaged braces will most likely lengthen treatment time.
Maintaining braces can be a challenging task. However, these tips will definitely help you be able to take care of your braces and look great in them.
