Orthodontic braces are the most commonly known orthodontic treatment and play a vital role in maintaining a clean, healthy smile. Many patients first get braces during their adolescence, which at that age can sometimes seem intimidating or even scary. It’s important for both a child and their adult to be as informed as possible before beginning treatment, not only to help put the patient at ease, but so they can also be prepared to take proper care of their braces and teeth during the treatment period. Here are 6 things we think you should know before getting started.
Different Treatment Options
Although many think of metal braces when considering treatments, there are many different types of treatments and even different types of braces Orthodontic braces could mean metal, ceramic, self-ligating, or lingual. In addition, there are also clear aligner braces, such as Invisalign. Your orthodontist can help determine which type of treatment is the best fit for your child.
Treatment Timeline
Having a good idea of the total length of time your child will need to wear braces will help set treatment expectations as well as give them an estimated countdown to when they can enjoy a healthy, braces-free smile again.
Foods to Avoid
With most braces, there will be certain types of food that will need to be avoided during treatment - hard, crunchy, sticky, or sugary foods can cause damage to brackets and wires. Even with removable clear aligners patients should still do their best to avoid sugary or sticky foods since they can become easily stuck in teeth.
Oral Hygiene is Key
Having good oral hygiene is always important, braces or not. However, since braces can make brushing and floss slightly more difficult, your child will need to take extra care to ensure they are thoroughly cleaning around brackets and wires where food particles and plaque can be tricky to remove. Luckily, there are tools like floss threaders and water flossers that can help.
Do Braces Hurt?
While braces usually aren’t outright painful, it’s typical to experience some discomfort from time to time, especially in the days following adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough to help with this, and orthodontic wax can be used to help alleviate any points of irritation from brackets.
The Benefits of Braces
While many think having a straight smile is the only end goal of braces, the benefits go well beyond this. Orthodontic braces can fix different bite issues in addition to aligning teeth. Straight teeth are much easier to properly brush and floss around, so they help keep your mouth healthy as well!
Learn More About Adolescent or Adult Orthodontic Treatment in Champaign, IL
If you’d like to learn more about orthodontic braces, Huls Orthodontics is here to help. Contact us today to find out more about our variety of available treatments, or if you’re ready to get started with adolescent or adult orthodontic treatment in Champaign, IL you can fill out our online . We look forward to seeing you!