Once you have decided to seek orthodontic treatment and the braces have been applied, your next question is probably “how soon can the braces come off?” We understand that a straight, beautiful smile is the number one goal but the second goal is achieving that smile quickly. In this post, we have listed a few suggestions to help you work with your orthodontist to achieve fantastic results as quickly as possible.
Follow the Orthodontist’s Instructions
Dr. King carefully charts out every patient’s treatment plan/timeline. At each appointment, he will give instructions on how to continue to move the teeth into perfect formation. It is important to make and keep your appointments in order for your progress to be closely monitored. Trust the expert, not following the instructions given can lead to a major setback in creating the smile of your dreams!
Eating Healthy and Safe Foods
Following a diet that is low in excessive sugar will help prevent plaque buildup in the mouth. If excessive tooth decay or gum disease occurs during orthodontic treatment, the braces may have to be removed in order to address the problem properly. Furthermore, make sure that you avoid foods that could damage the brackets or wires. Crunchy, sticky or hard foods/candy can knock wires loose or break brackets. When this happens, it is not only uncomfortable, but the braces are unable to work properly. Still, accidents happen and if you experience a loose wire or bracket, call the office and we will fix it for you.
Wear Your Rubber Bands
Wearing rubber bands helps to accomplish tooth movement and not wearing them can cause a need for additional months in braces. We understand that it is annoying to take them in and out when you eat, but being consistent with your rubber bands will keep your progress on track. A small inconvenience for a beautiful end result…
Protecting Your Braces
If you or your child plays sports, wearing a mouth guard will help prevent braces from being damaged. It can also lessen the likelihood of injury to you or your child. Another potential hazard for your braces is mindlessly chewing on pencils, pens or any other non-food item. It is important to be aware of what is put into the mouth. Believe it or not, aggressive brushing can also damage braces and the wires. Be sure to clean the teeth properly. Any member of Dr. King’s team would be happy to show you proper brushing technique, if you need a reminder.
Be Patient
Lastly, be patient with the process. A beautiful smile is not attained overnight. It takes time and precision. As treatment nears the end, it is very common for patients to want to quit or to become frustrated. Dr. King has almost 40 years of experience and has every patient’s best interest as his top priority. If at any point, you have questions or want further explanation, feel free to ask. Orthodontic treatment is a partnership between the orthodontist and patient. Both parties have a role to play in order to achieve the best possible results.