While modern technological innovations have made braces more convenient, bearable, and comfortable for patients, living with them comes with challenges. They will change the way your mouth feels, the way you clean your teeth, the way you eat and the kinds of food and drinks you consume. A good way to prepare yourself for a life with braces is by becoming acquainted with the lifestyle changes that metal braces require.
Here are some of those changes:
Food and Dietary Changes
When you have braces, there are food restrictions that you have to adhere to in order to avoid damaging the metal wires. Certain foods can also impact your overall treatment.
Refrain from foods that are too hard, crunchy and sticky. Foods that you should avoid during your treatment include:
- Hard candy
- Toffee and caramel
- Meat on the bone or tougher cuts of meat
- Bagels and bread with hard crusts
- Popcorn
- Ice
- Apples
- Corn on the cob
Expect some discomfort when chewing for the first few days that your braces are attached or when they are newly adjusted.
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the reasons why you must adhere to limiting some foods during treatment is because it is difficult to remove food debris. With enough build up over time, plaque could form and cause gum disease, tooth decay and even loss of your teeth. Maintain your braces by brushing and flossing regularly, as well as maintaining your adjustment schedule.
Brushing your teeth
Brush your teeth after every meal to keep your teeth and braces clean. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Brush in a circular motion to remove food from all areas of your teeth and braces.
Flossing
Floss at least once a day (especially at the end of the night). However, it’s better if you can manage to floss every time after you brush. Dental floss helps get rid of food particles and plaque that your toothbrush cannot reach, including small spaces between the wires and the brackets of your braces.
Keep Your Appointments
Your braces have to be adjusted by the dentist on a regular basis. Do not miss any appointments to ensure that the treatment will go as planned. This may also decrease the amount of time you need to wear the braces.
Lifestyle Changes
People with metal braces should refrain from contact sports, as rough play can damage their braces. These sports may include football, hockey, wrestling, and boxing.
Invisalign aligners are a common substitute to traditional wired braces. Ask your dentist if this option is right for you.
If you are looking for a dentist in Brampton, Ontario to take care of your orthodontic needs, call Springdale Dental Centre at (905) 458-1212.
