Are you considering or in the beginning phases of wearing braces?
Wearing them is just one aspect of the process. Making sure you don’t do anything wrong can be the key to your successful journey with braces.
There are many wearing errors that you must be careful not to commit. A good mentor in the beginning stages can ensure you escape the errors on your educational journey with braces.
To avoid these beginner braces wearing errors, read on.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Neglecting oral hygiene while wearing braces can harm your dental health. When food particles get trapped around the brackets and wires, they create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to plaque buildup and potential tooth decay. Establishing a strong oral hygiene routine is crucial, including brushing after every meal and flossing daily.
Choosing a local orthodontist who can provide regular check-ups and guidance on proper oral care for your braces can greatly contribute to maintaining optimal dental health throughout your treatment. Remember to consult your orthodontist if you have concerns or questions about maintaining good oral hygiene with braces.
2. Not Wearing Rubber Bands as Instructed
Rubber bands, also called elastics, are crucial for fixing bite problems and getting the jaws in the right place. Many people who first get braces make the mistake of not wearing them all the time or as the orthodontist tells them to. If you don’t wear the rubber bands as directed, your progress will be slower, and the treatment will take longer. These elastics push on your teeth and jaw in certain ways to move them into the right place.
Listen to what your orthodontist tells you about when and how to wear your rubber bands. Make sure you change them as often as you’re told to keep them working. If you have trouble putting them on or they hurt, don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist or staff for help.
3. Eating Hard or Sticky Foods
Hard and sticky foods can damage braces by breaking brackets or bending wires. Don’t bite into hard foods like nuts, popcorn, and candies because they can break brackets or put too much pressure on the braces. Sticky foods like caramel, taffy, and chewing gum can get stuck in your braces and make it hard to clean them properly.
Choose foods that are easy on braces, like soft fruits, cooked vegetables, pasta, and soft meats. Cut solid foods into smaller pieces that are easy to chew to reduce the chance of injury. Remember that a diet that works with braces is only for a short time and will help you get the desired results faster.
4. Skipping Orthodontic Appointments
Your orthodontist needs to see you regularly to check your progress and make necessary braces changes. If you miss or delay an appointment, it can slow your treatment and take longer.
During these appointments, your orthodontist can check how your teeth are moving, make any necessary wire adjustments, and make sure everything is going as planned. They can help with any worries or pain you might be having.
By going to all of your scheduled appointments, you help your orthodontist give you the best care possible and get the most out of your treatment. If you can’t make your appointment or need to change it, contact your orthodontist’s office as soon as possible to find a new date that works for both of you.
5. Using Teeth as Tools
Using your teeth as tools to open packages, tear tape, or bite nails can be tempting, but doing so while wearing braces can cause damage. Braces are designed to gradually shift and align your teeth, and applying excessive pressure or force by using your teeth as tools can lead to broken brackets, loose wires, or even tooth fractures.
To avoid these issues, always use the appropriate tools for tasks like opening packages or cutting tape. Keep a pair of scissors or a utility knife handy to prevent the need for using your teeth. Treating your braces carefully and using your teeth solely for eating can protect your orthodontic appliances and maintain a smooth treatment process.
6. Neglecting Mouthguard Use
If you participate in sports or other physical activities, protecting your braces and teeth from potential injuries is crucial. Neglecting to wear a mouthguard can result in broken brackets, damaged wires, or even harm your lips and gums. Consult your orthodontist about getting a custom-made mouthguard that is designed to fit comfortably over your braces.
Custom mouthguards provide an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of injuries during contact sports or activities with a high impact risk. Remember to wear your mouthguard consistently and properly, following your orthodontist’s instructions. By prioritizing mouthguard use, you can prevent setbacks in your treatment progress and maintain the integrity of your braces and teeth.
7. Getting Discouraged or Impatient
It’s not unusual for first-timers to feel down or impatient during their orthodontic treatment. Getting the results you want from braces can take months or even years, so staying positive is important.
Don’t forget that the end goal is to have a nice smile and better dental health. Stay on track with your treatment plan and trust your orthodontist’s skills. They have made a treatment plan that is unique to you and fits your needs.
Remember that each adjustment and visit to the orthodontist brings you closer to reap the benefits of braces. Ask your friends and family for help, and think about joining online communities or support groups where you can talk to people going through similar things. You can handle getting braces with confidence if you stay positive, are patient, and keep your mind on the result.
Steer Clear of Beginner Braces Wearing Errors
Braces can be a great way to fix a great smile, but it is important to remember the basics to avoid beginner braces wearing errors. Wearing the right types of braces, improving braces cleaning routine, avoiding certain foods, and following doctor’s orders are all important steps in the braces-wearing process.
Following these guidelines can help people achieve the smile of their dreams! Work with your dentist to make sure your smile is healthy and beautiful.
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