6 Tips To Help You Adjust To Life With Your New Braces
Braces are an excellent tool for providing a healthy and aesthetically pleasing smile, but newly fitted braces can sometimes prove problematic for a variety of reasons. If you are thinking of having dental braces fitted, or have recently done so, follow these six simple tips to help you easily adjust to life with your new brace.
1. Allow yourself time to adjust.
Be patient! As with anything new, braces will take some getting used to. It is essentially a foreign object in your mouth and it is only natural that you may find it a bit odd or strange. Give your mouth time to acclimatise. You should find that any awkwardness should pass in a few days as you become more comfortable and familiar with your new brace.
2. Eat soft, easily chewed foods for a few days.
Eating a normal diet may prove slightly difficult in the early stages. You may find chewing uncomfortable for the first few days. Trying to eat full meals may be a slow process. Where possible, stick to soft foods that require little or no chewing. As you become accustomed to your braces, you will find that eating becomes easier and quicker, and you can enjoy a normal, healthy diet again. Your dentist can advise you on any foods you need to avoid in order to prevent damage to your teeth and braces.
3. Practice good dental hygiene.
Good dental hygiene is important, even more so when you have braces fitted. Food debris can become trapped in your braces and cause a buildup of bacteria that will eventually cause decay and pain. Be sure to brush your teeth and braces thoroughly twice a day, and use a recommended mouthwash. This is the best way to avoid any severe pain and damage to your mouth. Your dentist will advise you on which products are most suitable for your individual dental needs.
4. Use over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
Some pain or discomfort is to be expected after having your braces fitted for the first time and following any subsequent tightenings. Use some over-the-counter painkillers or a topical dental gel to reduce any irritation and inflammation. This is only temporary and should subside after a few days.
5. Visit your dentist for persistent problems.
If you are finding that the pain you experience is severe and long lasting, or you are simply not adjusting well to your braces, visit your dentist. It may be that your braces need to be adjusted. A good dentist will be accustomed to dealing with any problems that braces may present and can give you further advice for your individual circumstances.
6. Remember your long term goal.
Remember that braces are only temporary. You may not be entirely thrilled at having them fitted, but the long term benefits far outweigh a little short term inconvenience. Persevere and think of the lovely, straight, healthy smile you will have at the end of the process