Tips for Caring for Braces
We’re so excited you’ve chosen to trust us with your orthodontic care at Windy City Orthodontics. You’ll love your new smile, but there’s a lot that goes into your treatment. Let’s take a closer look together.
Managing Discomfort
As you begin your journey with braces, it's natural to encounter some initial discomfort in your teeth and mouth. Rest assured, this is a temporary phase, and there are ways to ease any soreness you may experience.
To alleviate discomfort:
- Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution (one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water) for a few minutes. This can provide relief during the adjustment period.
- If necessary, over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain.
- It's common for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to adapt to the braces and may become slightly irritated. We can provide wax to soothe any tenderness.
Oral Care & Hygiene
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential while you have braces. With a little practice, you can ensure your oral health remains in excellent condition throughout your orthodontic journey.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Use a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles and fluoride toothpaste.
- Replace your toothbrush when signs of wear appear.
- Brush thoroughly around all parts of your braces and teeth to keep your brackets shining.
- Floss every night before bed, using floss threaders or water flossers if needed.
Dietary Considerations
While your braces will pave the way for enjoying your favorite foods once more after treatment, it's important to be mindful of what you eat during orthodontic care.
Brace-Friendly Choices
Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods like popcorn, nuts, hard candy, and gum. Instead, opt for gentle options like soft cheese, pasta, and mashed potatoes.
Tooth Movement
It's normal for your teeth to undergo slight movement and loosening during orthodontic treatment. This is part of the process as your teeth adjust to their new positions.
Addressing Loose Components
Should any part of your braces become loose, please contact Windy City Orthodontics in Chicago or Lakeview immediately for necessary repairs. In the meantime, you can temporarily secure a loose wire using a spoon or pencil eraser, and wax or a wet cotton ball can alleviate any irritation.
Adjustments for Archwires, Brackets, or Ties
Occasionally, archwires may shift, potentially causing cheek irritation. You can make minor adjustments using a pencil eraser or cotton swab. Apply orthodontic wax to cover any protruding wires or brackets until we can address the issue.
Caring for Your Orthodontic Appliances
Consistently wearing prescribed appliances, such as rubber bands or retainers, is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
Guidance for Athletes & Musicians
For athletes, protect your teeth with orthodontic-friendly mouthguards during physical activities. Invisalign users should remove aligners during practices or games and check for any damage. In the event of an accident, schedule an appointment for assessment.
Musicians may require an adjustment period when playing with braces. If discomfort or sores develop, use wax and warm saltwater rinses for relief. Your musical skills will adapt over time.