One way to smoothen the process of adapting to your new braces is by being prepared. Whether you are having this orthodontic treatment as a child, teenager, or adult, you can never take preparation out of the equation. So if you’re reading this article today, chances are, you’re due for braces in the following days or weeks.
With the guidelines we have carefully put together to prepare you for this life-changing decision, you won’t need to burden yourself with the uncertainties you might encounter before or after your treatment.
What to Do Before Having Your Braces
Braces help you have a confident smile, healthy bite, and straighter teeth. Undergoing this orthodontic treatment can be one of your life’s most special occasions. However, there are a few things to do before you celebrate.
Here are five preparation tips to remember when preparing for your braces.
1. Prepare Yourself Mentally
It’s okay to feel nervous before your braces appointment. Reading other people’s experiences from a patient’s point of view during and after the treatment can reduce lingering fears. Doing research ahead of time gives you an idea about what to expect in your appointment and helps you better prepare yourself mentally.
When you book an application for braces, the dentist will see if there is dental work that needs to be done first. This may include dental fillings and professional teeth cleaning. You may visit their website to learn more about common general dentistry services in Bayonne, NJ.
2. Choose What Type of Braces You’ll Get
Although metal wire braces are the most widely known and conventional type, you can still consider other alternatives. Some popular choices of braces you can pick from are:
Invisalign Aligners
Clear teeth aligners like Invisalign are an outstanding option to consider. These are made from transparent plastic materials customized to fit your specific teeth. The good thing about this kind of aligner is that it is removable, easy to maintain, and clean. Since it’s transparent, it’s hard to notice when somebody is wearing it.
Self-Ligating Braces
This type of braces look similar to conventional metal wire braces. However, their main difference is that self-ligating braces generally utilize a permanently installed system to hold the archwire in place instead of ligatures.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces function like standard braces. However, they go on the back surface of the teeth instead of the front. Folks who do not want others to know they have braces often go with this choice.
3. Concentrate on the Benefits of Braces
If the idea of getting braces is frightening and scary, the benefits you’ll get after the treatment will surely motivate you. Not only will you have proper bites and straighter teeth, but you’ll also have beautiful smiles and an improved appearance. Concentrating on the benefits of braces will raise your self-confidence and keep you from getting unsure or reluctant about making your last decision.
4. Thoroughly Clean Your Teeth
The orthodontist needs a plaque-free tooth surface to let the cement adhere correctly. If you want to skip the professional clean before your application, clean your teeth gently and properly after your last meal before heading to your appointment. However, the dentist in Secaucus, NJ, will still decide whether a professional teeth cleaning will be required.
5. Stock Up on Soft Foods
Since the orthodontist will prohibit you from consuming crunchy, chewy, or hard foods after the dental procedure, you can prepare by stocking on soft foods. Mashed potatoes, protein shakes, pudding, yogurt, and smoothies are food choices you can stash and munch on for the first few weeks of using braces. If you want to eat veggies, try pureeing vegetable soup or adding spinach to your smoothies.
When you go to the dentist for your single tooth implant procedure, they’ll also prohibit tough foods to help you recover quickly. Since dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, they’ll need time to heal and integrate into your gums permanently. Avoiding hard foods after 1-2 weeks can aid in the recovery process.
Conclusion
Braces require preparation and huge commitment on your part. However, the efforts you’ll devote before and after the treatment far surpass the benefits you’ll reap for years with a beautiful smile and optimum oral health. If you have any questions regarding braces maintenance, your orthodontist can answer them based on your unique situation.