One way to smoothen the procedure 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 blog post 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 concern yourself with the uncertainties you might encounter before and 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 memorable occasions. However, there are still a few things to do before you celebrate.
Here are five preparation tips to remember when getting ready for your braces.
1. Prepare Yourself Mentally
It’s okay to feel anxious before your braces appointment. Reading other people’s experiences from a patient’s perspective throughout and after the treatment can alleviate lingering fears. Researching in advance gives you an idea about what to anticipate in your appointment and helps you better prepare yourself emotionally.
When you schedule 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. If you have cavities, an emergency dentist can address your situation with a tooth filling. You may visit their website to learn more about their emergency dental services in 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 choose from are:
Invisalign Aligners
Clear teeth aligners like Invisalign are a great option to consider. These are made of transparent plastic materials tailored to fit your specific teeth. The good thing about this kind of aligner is that it’s removable and easy to clean and maintain. Since it’s transparent, it’s difficult to notice when someone uses it.
Self-Ligating Braces
This kind of braces look similar to traditional metal wire braces. However, their primary difference is that self-ligating braces generally use a permanently installed system to hold the archwire in place instead of ligatures.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces function similarly to typical braces. However, they go on the back surface of the teeth instead of the front. People who do not want others to know they have braces often opt for this choice.
3. Concentrate on the Benefits of Braces
If the thought of getting braces is scary and frightening, the benefits you’ll get after the procedure will inspire you. Not only will you have proper bites and straighter teeth, but you’ll also have confident smiles and an improved appearance. Focusing on the benefits of braces will raise your confidence and keep you from getting reluctant or unsure about making your last decision.
4. Thoroughly Clean Your Teeth
The orthodontist needs a plaque-free tooth surface to let the cement adhere effectively. If you want to skip the professional clean before your application, ensure you clean your teeth gently and properly after your last meal before heading to your appointment. However, the dentist will still decide whether a professional teeth cleaning will be needed. You may visit their clinic to see their dental services in Ventnor City.
5. Stock Up on Soft Foods
Since the orthodontist will restrict 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, smoothies, and yogurt, 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 book appointment for root canal treatment, the dentist will also prohibit hard foods after the procedure to help you recuperate quickly. Since this treatment is intended to save your natural tooth, it will need time to heal and function effectively. Avoiding tough foods after 1-2 weeks can prevent irritation and aid in the recovery process.
Conclusion
Braces require huge commitment and dedication 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 address them based on your unique situation.
