If this is your first year wearing braces, or if you’re in the home stretch, or maybe you’re just considering getting braces, there are habits that you can start implementing today to ensure that your braces do their job.
And, once they’re off, you’ll be left with a beautiful and healthy smile you’ll love showing off!
Continue reading to learn more about dental health resolutions that you can make in 2021 to keep that smile of yours happy and healthy before, during, and after braces.
Improve Your Brushing & Flossing Habits
No matter how diligent of a brusher and flosser you are, there’s always room for improvement. If you are just starting out wearing your braces, there is definitely a learning curve when it comes to how to best brush and floss your teeth. One of the best ways to find out if you’re doing a good job brushing and flossing is to discuss the current state of your dental health with your Idaho Falls orthodontist and/or dental hygienist. Your orthodontist will be able to see whether or not your brushing and flossing techniques are up to par and can help to direct you on ways to fix them.
Here are some brushing and flossing habits to “resolve” this year to keep your teeth bright and free from cavities:
- Brush your teeth at least every morning and night. If you’re not already doing this, this is the first step you need to take. When you wake up and before you go to bed spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth (including your tongue) using a toothpaste with fluoride and an Idaho Falls orthodontist recommended toothbrush for braces.
- Floss your teeth every morning and night. After brushing your teeth, you need to floss. Just how you wouldn’t only brush your upper teeth, flossing is a critical part of any dental hygiene program. If flossing is proving to be extra difficult, talk to Dr. Randall about how you can floss your teeth more effectively. Remember, it may take time to get used to brushing and flossing with braces, but the more you do it, the better you’ll become.
- Brush, floss, or rinse your mouth out with water after every meal. Depending on what you ate, will determine which of the steps are necessary-maybe all three! The point here is to knock loose any food particles so that they aren’t stuck between brackets, wires, or teeth. Pro Tip: to make sure that you are always ready, pack a dental care kit with you everywhere you go. Leave one in your car, one at your desk, or in your bag, that way you’re always prepared.
Follow The Approved Braces “Diet” From Your Idaho Falls Orthodontist
When you got your braces put on, your Idaho Falls orthodontist gave you a list of foods that were OK to consume and foods that are not. To keep your teeth and your braces in tip-top condition, avoid these foods while wearing your braces:
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Ice
- Corn on the cob
- Gum
- Caramel
- Beef Jerky
- Apples
- Carrots
It’s recommended to stay away from foods that are considered to be crunchy, hard, chewy, or sticky. Additionally, try to avoid chewing on nails, pets, straws, etc.
Keep your Orthodontic Appointments
Depending on the type of treatment you are getting, your orthodontist will recommend to see you at least every six weeks (sometimes sooner) and while this may seem like a lot, it will help your orthodontist in Idaho Falls see if any adjustments need to be made to quicken the process of straightening your smile, which will mean you can get your braces off that much sooner!
Also, your orthodontist can make adjustments if something doesn’t feel right and recommend tips to keep your braces, your teeth, and your gums happy. Missing orthodontist appointments can lead to potential misalignment which will mean that your braces have to actually stay on longer and could even cost you more money. So, find a time that works best for you and make your appointment.
Considering Braces? Give Us A Call!
If 2021 is the year that you are considering braces, to improve your smile and your confidence, we commend you for taking this first step and are excited to help!
Randall Orthodontics wants to make sure that all of our patients know what their options are in terms of payment plans, types of braces, and treatment options. To learn more about braces and to see if you’re a candidate for our fast-track Damon System or Invisalign contact us today for a free consultation. We can’t wait for you to smile with confidence.
Stay Safe, and Happy New Year!
