Are you or your child going to be getting braces? This is a big step, but a very beneficial one toward a lifetime of oral health. Teeth that are in proper alignment are easier to keep clean and healthy. A bite that lines up correctly promotes healthy jaw movement and prevents TMJ. The first thing you should know about getting braces is that it’s the right decision if you need them.
If you want to be fully prepared and have a better idea of what to expect, here’s a basic guideline of what you should know about getting braces.
The First Step is a Consultation
If you’ve been referred to us by your dentist for orthodontic consultation, the first appointment is usually a consultation. We will examine your teeth and identify the problems that need to be corrected. Sometimes the consultation appointment will also involve taking the first impressions of the teeth in order to create a plan for treatment. We will explain the plan and allow you to ask questions. Cost and payment options will also be discussed.
Getting Fitted With Braces
The next step is the appointment where you will get your braces put on. Brackets are attached on your teeth. This process takes a little while, between 1 and 2 hours in most cases. You will have the opportunity to get up and move around at different times during the process. When all is complete, you will be given instructions for taking care of your braces and teeth.
Following the Placement of Braces
The adhesive used to attach your brackets and bands can take up to 24 hours to fully set, so it is best to be careful when eating and brushing your teeth the first day after getting your braces put on. You may also experience some soreness the following day and a few days after. Eat soft foods to help avoid pain. You can also take over the counter pain relievers to help reduce the soreness. You may also find that you are salivating more than usual. That is normal, and is just your body’s reaction to foreign objects in your mouth (the new braces).
If you develop sores on the insides of your cheeks or lips due to the friction of the brackets, simply apply orthodontic wax on top of the bracket to smooth it over so that the sore spot can heal. Your mouth will eventually get used to the brackets and toughen up so that you won’t keep developing sores.
Regular Appointments
You will return to our orthodontic practice for appointments on a regular basis, usually every 8-10 weeks . These appointments are for us to assess your progress and make adjustments to your braces to move your teeth into the proper positions. Your treatment may take anywhere from 1 to 3 years. The best thing you can do to keep your time in braces as short as possible is to follow instructions. Avoid the foods that can cause damage to braces, wear your rubber bands when you’re supposed to, and follow any other instructions.
Brushing and Flossing with Braces
Caring for your teeth while in braces is extremely important. It is recommended that you brush after eating. This ensures that you remove food particles that get stuck in your braces, which is good for your teeth and also helps you avoid embarrassment. You may need to replace your toothbrush more often because they wear out faster from your braces. Take special care when brushing to focus on the gum line above your braces where plaque is more likely to build up.
Flossing is a big trickier, but it can still be done. Thread the floss underneath your archwire and be sure to get between each tooth. A floss threader (like a plastic sewing needle) can make it easier to get the floss under the archwire. Super floss can also help, because it has unique features like a reinforced end for easier threading and thick, spongy parts to get into hard to reach places. Flossing is extremely important for tooth and gum health, to remove food particles and plaque from in between the teeth and along the gum line.
What You Should Know About Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics
If you’re looking for an amazing orthodontic treatment for your child or yourself, Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics is a leading practice serving Lewisville, TX and the surrounding area. We have the experience necessary to handle all of your orthodontic needs.
Call 469-598-1700 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to giving you a smile you can proudly show off.