The Smile You’ve Always Wanted
Though most mouths needing traditional braces belong to kids, about 30% of all orthodontic patients in the U.S. are adults, and even more probably should consider orthodontic care. Most people needing orthodontic procedures are unaware of their need and experience reduced dental hygiene because of it. Not only are straight teeth easier to clean to prevent tooth decay, but crooked teeth often result in teeth grinding at night which can wear down enamel. Though some feel that the cost of braces both financially and aesthetically is not worth it, traditional braces really can make a world of difference and really only need to be worn for anywhere from a few months to a year and a half.
In this article, we’ll look at what patients can expect from traditional braces, hopefully demonstrating that when it comes to orthodontics cost is far outweighed by the ultimate benefits.
The First Few Days
After traditional braces are first installed, it is normal for patients to have some tenderness or soreness in their mouths. Relieve the pain by rinsing your mouth with lukewarm saltwater for a few minutes. If that doesn’t help, try a pain reliever. It is also common for wearers of traditional braces to experience a couple weeks of irritation to the lips, cheeks, and tongue while they adjust to the braces. Wax can lessen the tenderness and is usually available through your orthodontist.
Life with Braces
Looseness of Teeth, Wires, and Bands
Things are going to be wiggling around a little. Your teeth may start to feel a little loose because traditional braces work by loosening your teeth in order to move them to the right position. They won’t be loose anymore once they’ve been repositioned. The wires and bands on your braces might also become loose. In that event, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to repair the appliance. In the mean time, use the back of a spoon to push the wire back into place.
Playing Sports
There’s no problem with playing sports while wearing traditional braces. It might be a good idea, however, to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and appliance. If there is a sports emergency, check your mouth and appliance right away for damage.
Eating with Braces
There are a few foods to avoid while you’re wearing traditional braces. Stay away from:
- Chewy foods like bagels and licorice
- Crunchy foods like popcorn, chips, and ice
- Sticky foods like caramel and gum
- Hard foods like nuts and hard candies
- Foods you have to bite into like corn on the cob, apples, and carrots
You can still enjoy dairy, breads without nuts, grains, meats and poultry, seafood, vegetables, most fruits, and ice cream.
Wearing traditional braces is fairly easy to get used to and brings results that are more than worth the trouble. If you think you might benefit, talk to the professionals at your dental offices as soon as possible. More.
Comments
I tried traditional braces for a few weeks and ended up going with Invisalign. They’re such a pain to wear.
I need them, but I saw how awful it was for my daughter and am too afraid to go.
I need them, but I saw how awful it was for my daughter and am too afraid to go.