For many people in the US, getting braces is a rite of passage that moves them closer to their goals as a person. But even though braces are a pretty normal part of modern American life, most people still aren’t quite sure what they need to do before they have their braces put on. By doing a little planning in advance, you can make sure that your experience with braces is as comfortable and effective as possible.
Know What You Can’t Eat
Since braces are on your teeth, they can profoundly impact what you can and cannot put in your mouth. The last thing you want to do is damage your braces or your teeth by eating something that you shouldn’t have. It is most important that you are paying attention to the textures of the food you eat with braces on. For example, foods that are overly hard, sticky, or chewy can all potentially damage your braces and set back your progress. It is important to make sure that you protect your teeth and your braces by avoiding those foods.
Some Initial Discomfort
Getting braces isn’t a super big deal, and it won’t negatively impact how you are feeling in the long run. However, it can be an issue for your comfort initially, since the process of having braces put on can be uncomfortable. You may also feel uncomfortable for a little while after their application. If you want to avoid that discomfort, you may want to look at some alternatives to traditional braces. For example, Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces.
Prioritize Your Oral Health
When you have braces, it is more important than ever to make sure you are taking care of oral hygiene tasks. Prioritizing your oral health while you are in braces will help you to ensure that you end the process with straight teeth, a beautiful smile, and no new cavities. Since braces can trap food and other particles, it is important that you brush your teeth and take care to keep them looking and feeling great.
Getting braces can be the key to achieving the smile you have always wanted. If you take the time to learn about the process before you get your braces, you will be much better prepared. And sooner than you think, you’ll get your braces off and be back to normal life.
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