How To Prepare For And Improve Your Braces Journey

Wearing dental braces takes some getting used to, but it’s worth it because you’ll have a beautiful smile and aligned teeth to show off at the end of your braces journey. The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way, so here are some top tips to prepare for and improve your braces journey.

Practice Proper Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is more important than ever while undergoing orthodontic treatment. It’s important to ensure that your oral hygiene habits are already good before getting the braces on. For instance, you need to be aware of the recommended brushing or flossing technique and frequency. Remember that wearing dental braces means you have more nooks and crannies and hard-to-reach areas where bacteria and microbes can gather. This makes you more vulnerable to problems like tooth decay and gum disease, so it’s crucial to ensure you’re working on actively preventing these issues.

Upgrade Your Toothbrush

You should also consider upgrading your toothbrush to give your mouth the best chance at fighting off bacteria and microbes. For instance, your dentist may recommend buying an interdental and orthodontic toothbrush. These are designed to help you get rid of the food debris that’s prone to accumulate in gaps between your teeth. They also ensure that cleaning your orthodontic brackets becomes easier. You should also buy mouthwash as it helps keep your mouth cleaner overall.

Do Your Research

The most important thing you can do to prepare for your braces journey is to do as much research as possible. For instance, find out what foods you’re not supposed to eat as certain types of food can interfere with your orthodontic treatment. You should also research what to expect during the appointment. You’ll have to brush your teeth properly before the appointment, even though your dentist will give you a hygiene session as well. Remember, it’s normal to experience some discomfort when you first wear braces, but this should subside after a while. Doing your research ahead of time will help you manage your expectations.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, roughly four million Americans are wearing dental braces today. If you think braces are the right choice for you, applying these tips will ensure a successful braces journey. Contact the expert team at Silver Smiles to learn more or to make an appointment.