My family's dental health is important to me. Unfortunately for me, it is not as important to my little ones. Getting my kids to brush and floss on a daily basis is almost like taking on an obstacle course. I talked to my family's dentist about different methods I could try to encourage them to brush and floss on a regular basis. Some of the tricks worked, some did not. After some experimentation and talking to other parents, I was able to come up with a lot of great tips for helping kids care for their teeth. I started this blog to help other parents get creative when it comes to their kids and dental care.
-
General Dentistry: Taking Care Of Your Oral Health 7 February 2024
-
When Should You See a Dentist for a Tooth Extraction? 4 December 2023
-
How a Dentist Can Help If You Have a Toothache 14 November 2023
A Guide to Creatively Handling a Child's Dental Health
You Can Avoid Problems With Your Braces
Bella Snyder
Braces are an effective, smile-enhancing treatment, but when proper care is not exercised, complications, such as teeth staining and discomfort, can occur. These issues are more than an inconvenience, but the most convenient thing about these problems is that they can be avoided, often rather easily. Keep reading to learn how to make your experiences with braces as worry-free as possible.
Staining
If your goal is to improve the appearance of your smile, the discovery of discolored teeth likely is not on the agenda. However, if you maintain a poor oral hygiene regimen while you wear your braces, this is the discovery you can expect.
The areas of your teeth covered by the braces are protected and will remain the same color throughout the treatment process. If your oral care practices decline and the exposed parts of your teeth become stained, you will be able to clearly see the lighter areas once the braces are removed. Your smile might be aligned, but you will have highly visible light spots on your teeth.
Increased Costs
Braces are an investment largely because they provide such a long-term solution, but there are some people who end up paying more than they anticipated. A failure to follow the treatment plan as prescribed is often the main reason for added costs.
For example, if you routinely miss your adjustment appointments, it can extend the length of your treatment, which can translate into added costs. It is worth noting that failing to wear your rubber bands as required can also extend the length of your treatment and costs. Follow the treatment plan as prescribed for the best outcome.
Discomfort
It would be unfair to not mention that when you have your braces tightened or adjusted, there may be some level of discomfort, but it is important to note that this discomfort can be managed. On the day of your adjustment appointment, take over-the-counter pain medication and ensure you prepare a meal with soft foods, such as soup.
The pain medication will minimize the discomfort and the soft diet will minimize irritation to an already sensitive mouth. Just be sure to let your dental care provider know that what medication you have taken. Also try to schedule your appointment on a day when you are not busy, in case you need time to relax.
Your orthodontist team is here to help. If you have any issues or concerns about your treatment, speak with a member of the team for assistance.
Share