Understanding how to care for your braces is crucial for effective orthodontic treatment. From the moment your braces are fitted, proper care is key. At Class One Orthodontics in Newton and Worcester, we provide expert advice and resources to help you live comfortably with braces and achieve the best possible results.
Free Consultation
Adjust your diet to protect your braces and ensure effective treatment. Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods that can damage your orthodontic appliances. You'll enjoy your favorite snacks again soon, but for now, prioritize your treatment's success to achieve the best orthodontic results.
Chewy: Licorice, bagels
Crunchy: Popcorn, chips
Sticky: Caramel candies, gum
Hard: Nuts, hard candies
Biting into: Corn on the cob, raw carrots
Dairy: Pudding, soft cheeses
Breads: Pancakes, soft muffins
Grains: Pasta, soft rice
Meats: Tender chicken, meatballs
Vegetables: Steamed spinach, mashed potatoes
Fruits: Bananas, applesauce
Treats: Jell-O, soft cake
After your braces are applied, it's common to experience some general soreness in your mouth and tenderness in your teeth for a few days. For severe discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are effective. Soft tissues such as lips, cheeks, and tongue may feel irritated for a week or two as they adjust to the braces. Canker sores or blisters might appear; applying dental wax and using salt water rinses can help alleviate these symptoms.
Feeling your teeth slightly loose is a normal part of the braces realigning your teeth. If a wire or band loosens, use a blunt instrument like the back of a spoon to adjust it temporarily and apply wax if irritation persists. Contact our office in Newton, or our office in Worcester immediately for proper adjustments. Keep any dislodged pieces to bring to your appointment.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene with braces is crucial. Brush at least three times a day and floss daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental checkups are essential to manage risks like cavities and gum disease. Patients struggling with hygiene may need more frequent professional cleanings.
Participating in sports or playing musical instruments can continue without interruption with braces. Wearing a protective mouthguard is recommended during sports to shield your mouth from potential impacts.
Made from high-grade stainless steel, these braces are durable and can be personalized with colored elastics. Perfect for patients in New England, looking for a reliable option.
These less visible braces are ideal for patients with cosmetic concerns, requiring more careful oral hygiene. A popular choice at our Newton orthodontics office.
Clear, removable aligners offer a nearly invisible teeth-straightening option, allowing easier eating and cleaning. Available at both our Newton and Worcester locations.
Prepare your teeth for orthodontic bands by creating small spaces. These spacers are essential in the early stages of orthodontic treatment to ensure the bands fit properly.
Widens the upper jaw to improve the fit of upper and lower teeth. This appliance is crucial for correcting crossbites and creating space for crowded teeth.
Preserves space for permanent teeth in younger patients. It is used primarily to maintain the space in the lower arch after baby teeth are lost.
Corrects overbites by adjusting the jaw position, primarily used in children. This appliance is effective in guiding jaw growth to improve the bite.
Provide anchors for moving teeth in complex cases, enhancing control over tooth movement. TADs are a modern and minimally invasive solution for difficult tooth movements.
After braces, wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to maintaining your new smile. Clean retainers daily and store them safely to avoid damage or loss.
Daily Cleaning: Use a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your retainer daily, preventing plaque buildup and maintaining oral hygiene.
Proper Storage: Always store your retainer in its case when not in use to avoid damage or loss.
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular orthodontic check-ups to ensure your retainer fits well and your teeth remain in their correct positions.
Avoid Heat: Keep your retainer away from hot water or direct sunlight, as heat can warp the plastic.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your smile beautiful and healthy long after your braces are removed.
Class One Orthodontics is where smiles are masterfully crafted. As Worcester and Newton's premier orthodontic experts, we pride ourselves on providing unparalleled care with a personal touch. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and a dedication to our community, we're not just creating beautiful smiles – we're shaping the future of oral health with a warmth and expertise that's unmatched.
-1.png)
