Your Guide To Braces
Waterford, Norwich, & Groton, CT
Do Braces Hurt?
The question, “Are braces painful?” is one of the most frequently asked of orthodontists. Yes, braces can occasionally cause discomfort. However, the amount of discomfort differs from person to person. Some people are just mildly irritated by the metal brackets and wires. Others may have a little more soreness and discomfort, especially when the braces are initially placed or when they are tightened during an adjustment appointment.
Generally, however, the pain associated with braces is very manageable and tends to subside as patients become accustomed to wearing them. Additionally, there are a few things that patients can do to reduce discomfort, such as using orthodontic wax to cover any brackets that are causing irritation and taking over-the-counter pain medicines as needed.
Do I Still See My Dentist While In Treatment?
Yes! Dentists and orthodontists perform distinct types of work, and while you have braces, having your routine dental checkups with your dentist is more necessary than ever.
What Foods Do I Need To Avoid With Braces?
When you have braces, it is essential to be mindful of what you eat to avoid causing any damage to your braces or any other issues that may arise. Crunchy foods such as chips and raw veggies have the potential to bend wires and break the brackets.
Hard and sticky candy and chewing gum all have the potential to become stuck in braces, making them more challenging to clean. Chewy foods, such as bagels and hard pretzels, should also be avoided at all costs because they have the potential to stretch out wires and cause them to break.
In most cases, it is most beneficial to consume foods that are soft and easy to chew, such as eggs, yogurt, and pasta, and avoid harder foods like apples, nuts, chips, and hard candy. By following these recommendations, you can ensure that your braces stay in good condition and that you steer clear of any unwanted issues.
How Do I Care For My Braces?
It’s essential to learn how to properly care for your braces when you first have them put on. There are a few things you should do on a daily basis to keep your braces clean and free of damage. The most important thing is to thoroughly clean your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush around all of your brackets and wires, taking special care to remove any food or plaque that may have become lodged in the gaps. Also, be sure to floss your teeth at least once a day using waxed floss or an interdental brush. Insert the floss gently between each pair of teeth, being careful not to damage the wires.
We also encourage you to continue getting your regularly scheduled teeth cleaning from your general dentist. With regular care and maintenance, you can wear your braces confidently, knowing that once they’re removed, your smile will be as healthy as ever.
