Getting used to braces or any other orthodontic appliance takes a little time. Here, our Vancouver orthodontists offer some useful tips and information to make life with braces as easy as possible.
What to Expect
Throughout your orthodontic treatment, your mouth will go through a lot of changes.
Understanding right from the start what to expect, and how to care for your teeth and braces can really help to make the process go more smoothly.
Eating
Just because you have braces it doesn't mean that you have to stop eating all the foods you love!
Caution is the name of the game. Simply by being careful, and keeping a few limitations in mind, you'll be able to eat the majority of the foods you enjoy without damaging your braces or hurting your teeth.
Oral Hygiene
During your orthodontic treatment brushing and flossing regularly will be more important than ever. Careful, thorough brushing at least twice a day, and flossing regularly will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Caring for your Braces or Dental Appliance
Taking good care of your braces during treatment will increase the likelihood of your treatment staying on schedule.
If you have a removable appliance, you should be sure to brush it twice a day when you brush and floss your teeth.
Soaking your appliance in denture cleaner regularly will help to improve the taste of your appliance, and prevent the accumulation of plaque and bacteria.
But remember, soaking your appliance does not replace the need for brushing and thoroughly cleaning it!
Retainer & Expander Instructions
It's important to understand how to care for retainers and expanders. For complete instructions on how to care for your retainer or expander click HERE.
Athletic Mouth Guards
If you play sports, it's a good idea to wear an athletic mouth guard to protect your braces and your smile. Braces should never get in the way of having your best game ever!