Once you get braces put on your teeth, you must learn how to live successfully while wearing them. Following your orthodontist’s advice for restrictions and proper care will help the treatment process go faster. Here are some suggestions to follow while wearing braces.
Foods
Traditional braces have specific diet restrictions because some foods can cause damage. Your orthodontist will provide a list, but typical food categories to avoid include:
- Crunchy–popcorn, ice, chips
- Sticky–candy, gum
- Hard–candy, nuts
- Chewy–bagels, licorice
- Biting–corn on the cob, carrots, apples
On the other hand, foods to keep in your diet are dairy, soft breads, pasta, seafood, soft fruits and vegetables, and even desserts if they avoid the risky characteristics like stickiness or crunchiness.
Discomfort
Your mouth will be sore when you first get braces, but it will go away in a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and rinsing with warm salt water can help. Your cheeks, lips, and tongue sometimes become irritated, so ask your orthodontist for wax to place over pointy edges to lessen discomfort.
Loose appliances
Contact your orthodontist if any parts of your braces become loose, and save any pieces that fall off. Use the back of an eraser on a pencil to gently push wires back in place to avoid irritation until you can get your braces properly repaired.
Loose teeth
It is normal for your teeth to feel a little loose when they are being moved into better position. Once they are in the right place, they won’t be loose anymore.
Sports
You can continue to play sports while wearing braces, but should wear a mouth guard to prevent damage or injuries. Contact your orthodontist if you do experience any damage while playing sports so that it can be fixed.
Maintenance
Take good care of your braces so that they can effectively do their job in the shortest timeframe. Consistently wearing any additional orthodontics like rubber bands, retainers, headgear, and other appliances will enhance your treatment as well. Brush, floss, and care for your braces as directed by your orthodontist.
If you live in the Sherman Oaks CA area and you are interested in braces, contact our office today.
