How to Prepare for Braces

Getting orthodontics treatment for your teeth is a big decision, no doubt. Getting braces gives you a perfect set of teeth, meaning you can smile and laugh with confidence! Braces come with a set of responsibilities that need to be followed to ensure that you get the results you want. Although getting braces can be a cumbersome process, the final results make it all worth it in the end. Here are the key ways to prepare yourself prior to getting your braces fitted.

Braces – Putney Dental Care

Choose the type of braces

When it comes to getting your braces, you will have to make a choice on which type of orthodontics treatment is most appropriate for your teeth. Putney Dental Care in Sydney offer an initial orthodontics consultation to examine your specific dental problem and the results you wish to achieve. Ensure to discuss with your dentist for professional recommendations on which treatment is the best option for you.

Traditional metal:

The first type of braces is the traditional metal appliance which consist of stainless steel brackets and wires. The brackets will be fixed onto each individual tooth whereas the wires will require change during every dental appointment.

Ceramic:

The second type of braces is the ceramic braces which uses clear ceramic or tooth-coloured brackets. The purpose of the colour is to blend into the teeth more naturally so the braces will be less noticeable.

Lingual:

Another type of braces are lingual braces which require the brackets to be attached to the inside of your teeth facing your tongue. This is the least noticeable form of braces although the feeling of brackets on the inside surface of your teeth may feel rather uncomfortable compared to the first two options.

Invisalign:

Invisalign orthodontics treatment is in the shape of a custom-fitted mouth guard and is required to be replaced every 2 weeks. Although this is option is only available to adults and teenagers, the treatment is almost invisible and doesn’t require any material to be permanently fixed to your teeth throughout the duration of your treatment.

Before the appointment

Prior to your dentist appointment, be sure to clean your teeth thoroughly by brushing your teeth, flossing and using mouthwash. You should also personally examine your teeth by looking into a mirror. Inspect the current shape and structure of your teeth and whether there is anything in particular that you will like the treatment to focus on. You will also need to disclose any dental issues that you have currently to your dentist so that they are aware of which procedure to conduct first. The dentist appointment can also be a nerve-racking experience, so ensure to bring a trusted family member or friend for support!

Prepare for after the appointment

Since your teeth and gums will be highly sensitive due to the shift of your teeth, you will need consume softer foods that will be easy for you to chew and swallow. Use a blender to blend fruits and veggies to make smoothies and juices. You should also stay away from foods of extremely cold or hot temperatures that can trigger sensitive nerve endings in your teeth. Prepare yourself by shopping for a sensitive toothpaste such as Sensodyne or Colgate’s range of sensitive toothpastes which contain ingredients that numb your mouth. You should also opt for a manual toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent bleeding and gum abrasions. Investing in an electric toothbrush is another effective alternative that allows you to easily navigate around your teeth and braces, limiting harsh and brash movements.

Make a routine to-do list

Create a list of things that you will need to remember to do when you get your braces. You will have a responsibility to care for your teeth to avoid the development of dental care issues as well as to ensure that the orthodontists treatment is shifting your teeth correctly and effectively. Be sure to wear your elastic bands at the required times that is recommended by your dentist. You should ensure to remember the correct teeth to hook the ‘shape’ of the elastics onto your braces. You should also list down reminders to brush your teeth and floss after every meal as per usual as well as use orthodontics wax to prevent and cover any mouth ulcers that has developed. It should be routine to set reminders to attend your orthodontics appointments by setting an alert on your phone and in your calendar.

Take progress photos

One of the key reasons why you want to have braces fitted is owing to the final results of the treatment. So why not see the progress results for yourself? Take a photo before your braces are attached to your teeth and another of yourself afterwards. As your orthodontics treatment continues, you may want to take progress photos and compare with the shape of your photos from the start of the treatment and to the present. This is a great way of evaluating the process and identifying the gradual change to reach to the perfect shape that you wish to achieve!

Getting braces is a journey on its own, complete with challenges, responsibilities and achievements at the end of the road. To ensure that your braces journey sails smoothly, you will need to be well prepared in advance. How will you get ready for your trip to the orthodontist?

What is Orthodontics? Remove Tartar at Home