{"id":7567,"date":"2020-11-06T14:19:53","date_gmt":"2020-11-06T14:19:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wp.parklaneorthodontics.co.uk\/?p=7567"},"modified":"2023-06-22T11:34:13","modified_gmt":"2023-06-22T10:34:13","slug":"10-brace-care-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/parklaneorthodontics.co.uk\/blog\/10-brace-care-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Brace Care Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"

By now you\u2019ve done the hard part, made the decision to straighten your teeth here at Park Lane Orthodontics in Reading<\/a> and are looking forward to a lifetime of smiling with confidence. But whether you\u2019ve gone through adult orthodontics<\/a> or children\u2019s orthodontics<\/a> or if you\u2019ve had fixed braces, clear braces, near invisible braces, Invisalign or any type of aligner fitted to your teeth there\u2019s a number of things you should do to make sure your orthodontic experience is as effective and comfortable as possible.<\/p>\n

1. Be prepared<\/h5>\n

There are certain things all patients experience when it comes to teeth straightening and we\u2019ll explain and talk you through all them. For example, when your braces are fitted it\u2019s perfectly normal for your teeth and mouth to be a little sore or tender. Your lips, cheeks, and gums may also be irritated for up to two weeks while they get used to the braces. At Park Lane Orthodontics we advise trying a saltwater rinse or over-the-counter pain reliever such as paracetamol to help reduce the amount of pain or discomfort you feel.
\nYou may also experience your teeth loosening a bit but this is normal. Braces are designed to loosen your teeth while they move them into the correct position. They\u2019ll feel as strong as ever once all the teeth are in line and in the desired position.<\/p>\n

2. Breaking bad<\/h5>\n

Modern brackets are strong and durable but they\u2019re not indestructible so you\u2019ll need to break bad habits to stop breaking brackets. Biting fingernails, chewing pens and otherwise using teeth as a power-tool will break or damage your wires and brackets. This can lead to more visits to our Reading Orthodontic practice than needed, so use your teeth wisely.<\/p>\n

3. Dental wax<\/h5>\n

While your mouth and teeth are getting used to new braces, dental wax will help prevent any blisters and sores developing. Simply place the wax over the brackets and wires that are irritating your gums to get some relief. Ask us and we\u2019ll show you exactly how to apply the wax.<\/p>\n

4. Brush<\/h5>\n

Orthodontic patients should brush after every meal to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes and to reach the front, back, and top of each tooth.
\nAsk your Reading orthodontist about the best toothpaste and toothbrush for your teeth and braces also refer to our brace care advice sheets<\/a> for your specific orthodontic treatment guidelines.<\/p>\n

5. Floss<\/h5>\n

Your Reading orthodontists can also help you choose the right type of floss and provide a floss threader to make the process simpler. We recommend flossing after each meal which obviously requires time and effort but if you make it a habit to at least floss every evening, you\u2019ll prevent food and plaque building up on your teeth and gums. Your teeth should be just as healthy after braces as they were before.<\/p>\n

6. Right foods<\/h5>\n

When you first get braces stick to eating soft foods that require less chewing and can be swallowed easily. Soft foods will also avoid causing more pain and discomfort to your mouth. And, even when your mouth is healed, it\u2019s best to eat foods that won\u2019t damage your braces or get stuck between the brackets. For more details refer to our brace care advice sheets<\/a> for your specific orthodontic treatment guidelines.<\/p>\n

7. Wrong foods<\/h5>\n

Here are some foods to avoid while wearing braces:<\/p>\n

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