Life with Braces

A lot changes when you get your braces on – there are things you should and should not eat, there are different techniques for brushing and flossing, and there might also be some discomfort over the course of your treatment. All of these changes are normal. Let us help you make some of those changes easier.

There are many different terms that are used in the world of orthodontics. Here is a photo to help you better understand what each part is in your mouth.

Eating

Teeth move quicker when they are cleaner. We also want your treatment to go as quickly as possible so you can go back to eating the foods you love! That is why we ask you to avoid certain foods throughout your treatment. Here is a quick chart of do’s and don’ts!

Techniques for Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing is very important while in orthodontics. There are different techniques to brushing when it comes to braces and how to best clean around your braces and wires. Here is a quick “how to” of some good techniques.

Here at The Dentists for Kids we sell Gumchucks that assist in the task of flossing. We have the regular Gumchucks as well as Gumchucks for braces.

Orthodontic “emergencies” come in different forms can occur throughout the course of treatment. Most have easy fixes and can be done at home. In the event that it is something more serious, please don’t hesitate to call our office. We offer an after-hours service for ortho patients as well.

Sores

Sores can happen while the mouth is getting used to your treatment. The best remedy for those is warm salt water rinses. Oragel is also a quick fix that can relieve the pain. Placing ortho wax over the area of your braces or appliance that is causing the sore can relieve the pain until the mouth adjusts. They usually resolve themselves rather quickly.

There are occasions that you may get a sore that keeps coming back, this may or may not be caused by the braces. If this is something that occurs there is the possibility of correcting the sore with laser treatment that is also done within the office. Click this link to find out more about our in office Dental Laser Treatment.

Wires

When your teeth move, there is a chance that the wire can start to poke the gum or lip. This can be irritating to talk or eat. Putting wax on the wire is a quick fix that can help relieve that irritation. Cotton balls or gauze can also be a helpful alternative. The wire can also be pushed back in with a Q-Tip or a pencil eraser. Worst case scenario, you can clip the wire with nail clippers, being careful not to let the piece of wire fall into the patient’s throat. You can always call for an appointment so we can clip that wire quickly for you.

Bracket came off

If there is no pain, this isn’t a true emergency. If the bracket is still attached to the wire, wax may be applied to keep the bracket in place. If the bracket is lost, that is okay, too. Call for an appointment to reattach the bracket.

Appliance is loose

Do as best as you can with keeping the appliance in. Call us as soon as it happens so that we can get you in to re-cement the appliance.

If you have any further questions about life with braces, please feel free to contact The Dentists for Kids at 210-696-2563. Our friendly orthodontist and team will be happy to answer your questions and help you make your appointment at our office.