Having braces isn’t an experience we expect everyone to be great at from the get-go. Like anything worth doing in life, it requires practice, education, and patience. Today, our Moon Orthodontics team will cover this question so you can get off to a great start: What are some tips for adjusting to braces?
Why Do Patients Get Braces?
Dr. Moon takes a lot into consideration when recommending braces. He takes a close look at the state of your smile, takes x-rays and digital scans, and listens to your questions and concerns. With all of this in mind, he’ll create a special treatment plan that’s just right for you. Here are some reasons why we might settle on braces as the best option for you.
- Crowded Teeth: Lack of space in the jaw can cause teeth to overlap or become crooked, making it difficult to clean your teeth effectively and maintain proper oral hygiene.
- Malocclusion: Misalignment of the teeth or an improper bite—such as an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite—can create both functional and cosmetic challenges.
- Spacing Issues: Natural gaps between teeth can occur. Braces can close these spaces, leading to a more uniform and attractive smile.
- Jaw Problems: Braces can correct jaw alignment issues that might lead to problems like Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Braces can address not only orthodontic issues but also enhance the appearance of your smile, boosting your confidence.
- Oral Health: Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Therefore, braces can also serve as a preventive measure for maintaining good oral health.
The Parts of Braces
Braces are a lot more complex than they may look at first. The way they are carefully fit to your teeth and adjusted manually by Dr. Moon allows your teeth to shift into their new positions. These are three of the main components of traditional braces:
- Brackets: These metal or ceramic brackets are bonded to each tooth with a super strong adhesive. They serve as anchors for the other elements of your braces.
- Archwires: These wires connect the brackets and apply pressure to move your teeth into alignment gradually. Dr. Moon manually adjusts these wires in our office according to how we want your teeth to move.
- Elastic Bands: Also known as O-rings, these bands hold the archwire in place on the brackets and come in various colors, which are particularly popular among young patients at Moon Orthodontics.
How to Adjust to Braces
No one will ever have a perfect experience with braces. We don’t expect perfection from anyone! But there are so many tips and tricks that can help make your experience the best it can be.
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- Follow Care Instructions: Adhere closely to your doctor’s care instructions, which detail how to manage and clean your braces. For parents, it’s important to monitor their children’s practices and encourage good habits.
- Expect Some Initial Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some irritation or discomfort after getting your braces and following each adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort. However, if you experience unusual or persistent pain, contact our office for assistance.
- Use Orthodontic Wax: Applying orthodontic wax to the brackets and wires can prevent irritation to the soft tissues in your mouth, providing relief as you adjust to your braces.
- Choose Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies, particularly in the first few days after getting your braces or following adjustments. This can minimize discomfort while chewing.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods, such as gum, nuts, and hard candies, that can damage your braces or get caught in them.
- Use a Travel Kit: Having a small bag of supplies you bring with you can be an excellent tool for adjusting to your new braces. This can include orthodontic wax, a small brush for cleaning, a small mirror, and more.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keeping your braces clean is essential to prevent plaque buildup and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss threaders for effective cleaning, or consider a water flosser for added convenience.
- Be Patient with Adjustments: It may take a few days to get used to the new sensations and changes in your bite. Be patient with yourself during this adjustment period; you’ll adapt soon enough.
A Strong Starting Point
At Moon Orthodontics, we absolutely love when patients ask us questions. It’s our job to address your curiosity and lead you through a successful treatment—so don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re always excited to welcome both new and returning patients to our Overland Park and Olathe offices. You can read some testimonials from our amazing patients here!