What Types of Foods Should I Avoid While Wearing Braces?
Generally speaking, you won’t find that you have to alter your diet in any dramatic way while wearing braces. You do, however, have to proceed with caution in certain areas and indeed there are a number of different foods that you will definitely want to avoid.
Any type of hard candy will not be recommended for the duration of your treatment, for example. Likewise, chewy foods like bagels, licorice, and pizza crust are ones you should stay away from.
Also be mindful of crunchy foods like popcorn, chips, ice, and cereals, as well as sticky foods like caramel candies, chewing gum and gummy candies. Hard foods can also damage your braces, which means you should avoid things like nuts and hard candies.
Finally, stay away from any foods that require biting into – meaning corn on the cob, apples, carrots, ribs and chicken wings.
How Long Will I Have to Wear Braces?
The answer to this question is essentially going to vary based on the patient. It will all ultimately come down to the bite and/or other orthodontic issues that you have and how severe they happen to be. The typical range is anywhere from 12 to 24 months. But don’t worry – your orthodontist will go over all of this with you so that you know exactly what to expect, and you won’t wear braces for any longer than you truly need to.
When is the Best Age to See an Orthodontist?
For most people, a pre-orthodontic evaluation is always recommended before they reach the age of seven. This can help give parents a better idea of what potential issues they may face in the future.
However, going to the orthodontist is always recommended at any age. This is because it’s always possible to develop issues even later on in life, so you’ll want to consider seeing and getting an orthodontist evaluation and treatment as soon as you can.
How Do I Care For My Braces?
For the absolute best results, you should always floss and brush in between your teeth AND in between the brackets after every meal. You should brush and floss other times during the day, too, but after you eat is a critical time.
Likewise, you’ll want to make sure that you use mouthwash (or at the very least, some type of rinse) after flossing. Use an interdental toothbrush, and always visit your orthodontist regularly.
How Can I Ease Pain From Braces?
First, try gargling with a salt water rinse. If that doesn’t work, take over the counter pain medication like Tylenol or Advil. Dental wax can also be used to smooth the brackets of your braces, thus relieving pain caused by that problem.
Will I have to Wear Retainers After Braces?
Patients could be required to wear retainers every day for four to six months after treatment. This is roughly the average amount of time it takes for your teeth to finally stay set in their new positions.
Do I Need to Brush My Teeth More Often If I Have Braces?
In a word, yes. Brushing your teeth twice a day is an absolute requirement, as is flossing your teeth at least once a day.