Braces are a rite of passage for so many teenagers and adults. Often times, they get a bad reputation due to outdated information or a general lack of information. However, modern braces have come a long way. Proper knowledge and care for your braces can make your time with orthodontics enjoyable with lasting results for years.
When you come to Brooklyn Orthodontics for your braces, Dr. Mohamed AlJanabi will provide you with a full education on how your braces work, proper maintenance of your braces, and general repairs that can be done should a problem arise.
Proper Oral Care
Braces help our teeth align for a more functional and beautiful smile, but the additional surfaces within your mouth create additional surfaces for food to stick to. It’s important to make sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day or after each meal for a minimum of two minutes. Powered toothbrushes can help remove additional debris that could otherwise be left behind. Make sure you brush all surfaces of the teeth, including the inside and tops to remove food particles and plaque.
No special toothpaste is needed but mouthwash is encouraged. Flossing with braces can be more time consuming, but it is still important. Special threader floss has stiff ends that will allow you to guide it under the archwire and around the surfaces.
You should visit your general dentist every six months for routine dental cleanings and checkups even while you’re wearing braces. Improper care of your braces could require additional treatment time, resulting in extra costs and a lot of extra time in braces.
Maintaining Your Braces
Occasionally problems arise with braces in Brooklyn that can be addressed with simple fixes. If a wire becomes loose, simply use tweezers to put it back in place and add wax for additional stability. A wire that is poking out can be moved with a pencil eraser until it is properly positioned and no longer irritating the tissue. Any loose pieces should be covered with wax, particularly if they are causing irritation. If something is completely detached, wrap it for safe keeping until you can schedule an appointment so that it can be reapplied.
Relieve Pain
Technology for braces has advanced greatly allowing braces to be more comfortable during the treatment. Some discomfort may occur initially as your mouth, tongue, and cheeks adjust to the new appliance. This may last a couple of weeks. Occasionally, problems will arise with your braces that cause pain, but generally this can be addressed with some simple solutions.
Vigorously rinse your mouth with a solution of one teaspoon of table salt and eight ounces of warm water. Apply over the counter Orabase to areas in pain. The product is available at most drugstores and contains benzocaine to alleviate pain. For severe tenderness take an over the counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Place wax over areas that are causing persistent problems.
Emergency dental care is rare and knowledge of proper care and problem solving can save you time and make your orthodontic experience as comfortable as possible. If you have any questions or concerns about your braces or would like to schedule your own consultation for braces, contact the office of Dr. AlJanabi today at (718) 333-5898.