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Expert Guidance from Your Orthodontist in Richmond Heights
October is National Orthodontic Health Month, making it the perfect time to talk about what day-to-day life is like with braces and how to make the process easier. Whether you’re a teen starting your first treatment or an adult exploring alignment options, these tips from a trusted orthodontist in Richmond Heights will help you feel confident and comfortable from day one.
1. What to Expect After Getting Braces
Braces apply consistent pressure to gently move your teeth, and this can cause some mild discomfort, especially after adjustments. This is completely normal and typically fades within a few days.
To ease discomfort:
- Stick to soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
- Use orthodontic wax on brackets to prevent irritation.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
This guide to life with braces includes more tips for navigating the early days of treatment.
2. Smart Eating Habits with Braces
Certain foods can damage braces or make oral hygiene more difficult. Your orthodontist will recommend avoiding:
- Sticky candies and gum
- Hard foods like nuts or popcorn
- Chewing on pens, ice, or fingernails
Cut fruits and vegetables into small pieces, and always chew with your back teeth. A few simple changes in your eating habits will go a long way toward protecting your brackets and wires.
3. Oral Hygiene: Keep It Clean
Proper brushing and flossing with braces are essential to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and staining.
Best Practices for Brushing and Flossing
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric brush with a small head.
- Angle your brush to clean around brackets and wires.
- Floss daily using threaders or orthodontic floss picks.
Follow these brushing and flossing instructions to maintain a healthy smile during treatment.
4. Handling Discomfort and Emergencies
Minor Irritation
Use orthodontic wax to cover irritating brackets. Rinsing with warm salt water can soothe sore spots.
Poking Wires
If a wire is causing discomfort, try gently pushing it down with a cotton swab or pencil eraser. If the issue persists, contact your orthodontist.
Broken Brackets
Don’t try to fix it yourself. Call your orthodontist to schedule a repair.
5. Life After Braces: The Retainer Phase
When your braces come off, you’ll enter the retention phase – an important step to maintain your results.
Follow these retainer instructions closely:
- Wear your retainer as directed.
- Clean it regularly with non-abrasive products.
- Store it in its case when not in use.
Skipping your retainer could undo months of progress.
6. Long-Term Care for a Healthy Smile
Braces are just one part of your smile journey. Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending follow-up visits, and caring for your retainer are all critical for long-term results.
Our post on maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment includes tips to protect your smile throughout the entire process.
7. Explore Treatment Options That Fit You
Whether you’re wearing traditional braces or something more discreet, your care plan should match your lifestyle and goals. At Arch Orthodontics, we offer modern solutions like ceramic braces and aligners tailored to your needs.
If you’re still deciding on treatment, our post on understanding the different types of braces breaks it down simply.
And for a complete picture of what your treatment experience will look like, check out our journey to a perfect smile guide.
Areas We Serve
We’re proud to serve families and patients throughout Richmond Heights and the surrounding communities, including:
- Clayton
- Maplewood
- University City
- Brentwood
- Ladue
- Central West End
- St. Louis Hills
- Shrewsbury
- The Hill
- Webster Groves
- Tower Grove
Looking for a reliable orthodontist in Richmond Heights or nearby? Arch Orthodontics is just a short drive away. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and make your journey to a healthier, straighter smile a comfortable one.