Month: September 2016

LET’S GET THIS STRAIGHT

You and your braces have to have a good relationship while you’re spending time together. As is the case with all good friends it’s important to get that relationship off to a good start. If you want to avoid the rocky times there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

The first thing in the order of importance is properly caring for your teeth and braces. FLOSS! It’s a must. Yes, we agree it’s a bit more difficult, in fact a pain to floss around your braces but it’s the best prevention. You want to prevent gum disease and oral health problems and flossing is the place to start. A few minutes each day will stave off significant dental health issues when the braces come off.

Second, you’ll want to avoid foods and treats that are not brace friendly. While it may seem impossible to forgo caramel, gum, pretzels and all the other favorite items in your snacking repertoire we assure you it is not! A clash between hard candy and a bracket or wire will be won by the candy and might result in an additional trip to the orthodontist office. While Dr. King is fun to see, the extra trip should be avoided for the sake of your braces. Avoid those food/snack items altogether.

Thirdly, you may need to adjust your eating habits. You’ll want to chew with your back teeth and avoid taking large bites with your front teeth. Taking large bites can leave your braces vulnerable to damage. It is best to cut larger items into smaller pieces and chew with your back teeth. While corn on the cob has small kernels this is one food item you’ll want to keep for a post brace treat! Cut it off the cob to enjoy it while you are wearing braces.

Fourth, it’s important to remember to wear your rubber bands. Rubber bands and all other orthodontic appliances may seem trial some at first but failing to work diligently with them can increase the length of your treatment time by months. You don’t want to do that no matter how much you enjoy seeing everyone at Jupiter Orthodontics!

If you have any questions feel free to review information on our site, or call us at 561-747-5766, and we’ll be happy to answer them for you. Dr. King’s patients are the best part of our day!