Braces may be required if your teeth need to be straightened or your jaw needs to be aligned. You might be surprised at how much thinking goes into them. It is critical to educate oneself about braces before therapy. Charleston Orthodontics has an orthodontist in South Carolina who can explain the long-term procedure, but the list below will get you started.
Time of Use
Braces are not a cure-all. After they are fitted to your teeth, you will be required to wear them for an average of six months to three years. It all depends on how much straightening is required. You should see your orthodontist every four to eight weeks to get them readjusted.
You will need to see your orthodontist again after your teeth have been aligned and your braces have been removed because you will be fitted with a retainer. A retainer is a device that prevents your teeth from returning to their original position.
Intensity of Pain
While you may be afraid of braces because of the tightness they may cause, or because they are made of metal and wires, braces are usually not painful. There is some soreness when you first get them, but it goes away with time. To keep your gums and lips from stinging, you may be given wax or gel.
Brushing and Flossing Methods
Brush your teeth after every meal since food gets stuck in your braces quickly. Allowing it to build up may result in gum disease or tooth decay. If food gets lodged between your braces, it might cause harm. Flossing is more difficult, but it can still be done once a day with a water pick.
Patterns of Consumption
When wearing braces, there are some foods to be cautious of or avoid completely. This is because some foods can become entangled in the wires and become difficult to remove. Others may be highly forceful, causing your braces’ wires and brackets to break. Meals that are soft or simple to chew are good for eating while wearing braces. If you must eat apples or carrots, chop them into incredibly little pieces beforehand.
Sporting Events
You may believe that sports are out of the question if you wear braces. Of course, while engaging in physical contact, considerable caution is required, but this does not exclude you from having fun. To safeguard your braces and teeth, all you’ll need is a custom mouthguard. An orthodontist will create one for you based on the shape of your teeth.
After your braces are removed, you may want to keep using a mouthguard. It, together with a retainer, can protect your teeth from shifting back into their natural place. Not only that but wearing one at night may prevent you from grinding your teeth, a condition is known as bruxism.
How to Choose an Appropriate Orthodontist
When the time comes to get braces, always do your homework on orthodontists in your region to choose one that is a good fit for you. During this therapy, you may need to consult with their office. Charleston Orthodontics, with offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, and Summerville, SC, will be happy to answer any questions you have about braces. Don’t let your difficulties prohibit you from smiling.
