BRACES
BRACES 101: NOW IN SESSION.
TRADITIONAL METAL BRACES
Traditional metal braces are the most common. They’re strong and can withstand most types of treatment – even the most complicated kind.
GOLD BRACES
Similar to traditional metal braces, gold braces work just the same. The main difference: they look more natural on your teeth and add a special kind of “sparkle” to your smile.
CLEAR BRACES
With clear brackets people will notice your smile, not your braces. Clear braces are a little more tricky than traditional metal braces as you need to be a little more careful about what you drink to ensure you don’t stain them.
8 REASONS WHY BRACES GET STRAIGHT A’S.
Undergoing braces treatment in Pensacola will transform your self-esteem. Below are eight reasons why braces are great for more than your looks.
- They reposition your teeth to prevent tooth loss and gum disease
- They correct overlapping or crooked teeth
- They remove spaces and gaps between teeth
- They correct overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- They prevent front teeth from sticking out
- They help you speak and chew better
- They improve your oral hygiene habits
- They give you lifelong pride in your smile
KEEPING YOUR BRACES AND YOUR TEETH LOOKIN’ SHARP
Taking care of your teeth while going through treatment is so important! Oral hygiene and home care have to be a priority because, with braces, food can get caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach.
This can easily cause bacteria to build up and can lead to gingivitis, gum disease, and cavities. Not to mention, breath that could peel the paint off cars. Below are a few tips and tricks for keeping your gums, teeth, and mouth healthy throughout treatment.
ORAL HYGIENE 101: HOW TO KEEP YOUR SMILE HEALTHY
- Always brush after every meal and floss at least every night.
- Make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride.
- Drink water with fluoride.
- If recommended, use a fluoride rinse.
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods (gum, laffy taffy, caramel, gummy worms, sticky snacks).
- Avoid hard foods (ice cubes, nuts, jaw breakers, or any kind of hard candy).
- Avoid foods that get stuck in your braces and are hard to clean (corn on the cob, ribs, soft bagels, dried fruits).
- Avoid foods you have to bite into (apples, carrots, peaches).
- Avoid food or drinks with a lot of sugar, which can increase cavities.
- When you take your retainers or clear aligners out, make sure to put them in their container so they don’t get lost or broken. Keep them away from animals, as they love to chew them!
- Follow your dentist’s recommendations on when to schedule your routine checkups and cleanings.
OUCH! SORENESS FROM BRACES AND OTHER APPLIANCES HAPPENS
It’s totally normal to notice your teeth or mouth feel a little sore when you first get your braces or when you get them adjusted. Just remember that this soreness will go away and is all part of the process to create a beautiful smile! To help with any tenderness, we recommend rinsing with warm salt water.
How to make a saltwater rinse: Dissolve about one teaspoon of salt in about eight ounces of warm water. Swish and gargle for a few minutes. Always spit the solution out. Swallowing salt water can make your tummy not feel so good.
If the pain is more severe and is not relieved by rinsing, it’s okay to take a pain reliever. Consult with your primary care doctor to see which pain reliever is best for you.
When undergoing braces treatment in Pensacola, it’s also completely common for your lips, cheeks, tongue, and the soft tissues in your mouth to become irritated for a few weeks as they get used to your new braces and other appliances. For sore spots, we recommend using orthodontic wax.
How to use orthodontic wax: Just take a bit of the orthodontic wax and place it over the bracket or wire that’s causing tenderness. The wax will act as a buffer protecting the bracket and wire as well as the part of your mouth that’s tender.
LOOSE TEETH, LOOSE WIRES, AND BANDS – OH MY!
The first thing braces do before they start to really do their job is that they loosen your teeth so that they’re able to move into their proper position. So, if your teeth feel a little loose when you first get braces, don’t stress. It’s totally normal. Once your teeth are looking great and your braces come off, remember to wear your retainer as instructed to allow your teeth time to set in their new spot.
Occasionally, a wire or band may come loose and cause some irritation. If this happens, contact us as soon as possible so that we can repair the appliance. If any piece comes off, bring it to the office with you. If you are unable to get into the office to have it fixed you can temporarily fix the appliance by gently pushing a broken wire back into place. If a loose wire is causing irritation to your lips or cheek, use orthodontic wax or a wet cotton ball to cover the broken metal and reduce the discomfort.
KEEP PLAYING. YOU’VE GOT A GAME TO WIN!
Are you a student athlete, but you need braces in Pensacola? Good news! You CAN still play sports with braces. If you do play sports, we recommend that you wear a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth and your appliance. We offer custom mouthguards here at Smart Smiles for just $79.99, which we will fit & create just for you so that you can put your game face on the SMART & SAFE way! Talk to a team member about getting fit for YOUR custom mouthguard today!
In the event of a sports emergency, check your mouthguard and mouth for any sign of damage. If you notice any loose teeth or damage to the appliance, call our office immediately!
Cool Fact: You can also play instruments with braces, too. So, if you play the trumpet, piccolo, trombone, flute, obo – whatever – keep making music.