We already spoke about braces and some useful advice for braces wearers but have we warned you about common problems that may occur during that braces wearing phase?
Braces are used by orthodontists to help correct overcrowded or crooked teeth, and sometimes overbite. If you are considering braces or getting them soon, here are a few things to watch out for.
Common problems to watch out for when wearing braces
- Poor dental hygiene. Wearing braces will definitely make it harder than usual to brush or floss your teeth. They will also trap food particles, which might possibly lead to plaque, tartar, and cavities. You may avoid brushing and flossing, but keep in mind it is an absolutely necessary practice. To make it easier for you, you’ll need to get creative. For example, a special brush for braces actually exists. You can use it to scrub out the area underneath the wire and around the brackets. You can also use a floss threader to reach those areas that are getting hard to reach. Adding daily care mouthwashes to your oral hygiene routine is also super important as it will help kill the bacteria that remains and remove tiny food particles you might have missed. (consult your dentist to choose the right mouthwash)
- Tooth staining. When the brackets of your braces are glued on your front teeth, that part of your enamel is protected. However, the rest of your teeth can get stained throughout your braces treatment, leaving you with little white squares in the center of each tooth after braces are removed. The best way to avoid that is to eliminate soda, coffee, tea, and other drinks that might darken enamel as much as possible. Drinking them with a straw to keep them off your teeth can also be a solution. Of course, brushing regularly and using the appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste can help a ton.
- Sore mouth and teeth. The fact that your braces treatment is aimed at shifting your teeth, means that your mouth will often feel achy, making it difficult for you to properly eat and sleep. If the pain gets too much, over-the-counter medicine can do the trick.
- Snapped or missing ligatures. Ligatures, or little rubber bands on the front of your brackets, keep the braces tightened. Once in a while, they may fall off or snap. There is no need to worry. Just call your orthodontist and schedule an appointment to have them repaired. Also, try to avoid crunchy and sticky food.
- Speech difficulties. Having braces means you will have some getting used to do. Speech difficulties will start to clear up a few weeks into the treatment phase. And even if it doesn’t, tell yourself it is just temporary and worth the wait.
- Pain. Mostly, braces are inconvenient and uncomfortable. However, they shouldn’t cause any excessive pain. If you are experiencing severe pain that doesn’t disappear within a few days or with painkillers, get your orthodontist to examine your braces and make sure everything is well in place.
- Braces can be a hard phase for most individuals. Knowing what to expect and how to deal with them is crucial to make it easier on a patient.
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