Braces, the final solution for perfect teeth. It is predicted that an estimated 50-75% of the population can benefit from having some form of braces. In fact, one out of every five Americans is self-conscious about their teeth. Braces can come to the rescue. However, with braces, comes great responsibility. So, to make sure you get the perfect results, try to avoid these most common mistakes.
Slacking in Your Oral Hygiene
Many people, once they get braces, start to slack in their oral hygiene care. While hygiene might seem more difficult to maintain when you have metal in your mouth, that is all the more reason why you need to be more active in your oral health care. This is especially a factor if you have metal braces but is true for aligner braces too. Particles of food can get wedged in between the wire settings or discolor the aligner plates if you don’t brush your teeth regularly. Thus, brushing and flossing are more important than ever when wearing braces.
Still Eating What You Want
Sadly, having braces requires a more food-restricted diet of no hard, crunchy, or chewy foods as they can get lodged between your teeth, causing damage to the wire, metal brackets, your teeth and even your gums. Many think eating these foods won’t hurt, only to have to make an emergency trip to the orthodontist afterwards. Play it safe and stick to the foods your orthodontist advises you to eat.
Skipping Your Check-Up Appointments
Following the installation of your braces, it is essential that you go to your monthly check-ups as these visits make sure your treatment is progressing as planned. You are not an orthodontist, so you do not know if something needs to be adjusted in order for your treatment plan to stay on target. Missing just one appointment can throw your braces schedule off, leading to a longer duration.
Forgetting to Wear Your Retainer
You finally get your braces off, but then are told you have to wear a retainer. The good news is that retainers can be removed. The bad news is that many forget to put them back on. You might think no harm will come, but harm can be done since the retainer helps set in all of the work your braces did. Forgetting to put your retainer back on will cause your teeth to move out of place again.
Remember to avoid these mistakes, and you will be well on your way to a perfect smile in no time. If you’re considering braces, call the experts at Nowlin Orthodontics, today!
