Maintaining Your Braces in Corsicana, TX: Tips for Orthodontic Care

Introduction

Maintaining your braces can be a hectic task; however, it sets the stage for your healthy and confident smile. 

Did it ever occur to you how kids, teens, and even adults are smiling brighter these days? The secret might just be braces!

In the modern world of orthodontics, braces play a crucial role in fixing smiles and giving patients their dream smile. It has been a consistent solution for straightened teeth, bite problems, and making every smile perfect.
Over 4 million Americans choose to wear braces to get the perfect smile. And here in Corsicana, more residents are joining the trend. Braces are not just about looking good. They are oral appliances that help guide your teeth into their healthiest position. 

Let’s learn more about how braces correct our smile in the following sections. Continue reading to learn how to care for your appliances. 

Introduction to Braces

Braces are not just about looking good. They are medical devices that help guide your teeth into their healthiest position. Although it takes time and commitment, the result is entirely worth it! 

Dentists in Corsicana, TX consider braces as one of the most trusted tools in orthodontics for creating healthy, beautiful smiles.

Role of Braces in Smile Improvement

Braces are precisely-made, customized dental appliances that include a combination of small brackets attached to your teeth. Archwires and sometimes elastic bands connect these metal brackets. 

Together, they will apply gentle and consistent pressure on and around your teeth to gradually shift them into their ideal position. This entire process takes between 12 and 36 months on average. 

Types of Braces

When we hear the word "braces," all we can imagine are the metal ones made out of steel. However, there are different types of braces available, and our dental experts design each of them according to your needs. Let’s delve deeper into it. 

Metal Braces

These are the traditional form of braces, which are made out of high-grade stainless steel. They are durable and provide maximum efficiency. Besides, they are more affordable than other types. 

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces act similarly to traditional metal braces, but they are made from materials that resemble the color of your teeth. This makes them less noticeable and gives a discreet appearance. 

Clear Aligners

Although they don’t belong to the community of braces, they are considered one as they perform similarly to the braces. They are also known as Invisalign and involve the use of a series of custom-made transparent trays that will gradually shift your teeth. 

5 Reasons Why You Might Need Braces

As we mentioned before, braces serve not only as a cosmetic procedure but also as a restorative one. Here are five common reasons that our orthodontist might recommend them to you-

Crowded or Crooked Teeth

When there is not enough space in your jaws, your teeth might end up overlapping or twisting, which makes cleaning them harder and increases the risk of cavities. 

Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps or spaces can develop either naturally or from missing teeth. Braces will help close such gaps, thereby improving the appearance as well as bite functions. 

Overbite, Underbite, or Crossbite

If your teeth are misaligned, that might cause jaw strain, uneven tooth wear, and even speech issues. Braces will slowly guide your bite into the best fit. 

Jaw Pain or Discomfort

Poor alignment can put extra stress on your jaw and even cause TMJ, leading to pain, headaches, or chewing problems. 

Procedure of Getting Braces: A Brief

Getting braces is a step-by-step process that our Navarro orthodontist designs to ensure that your treatment is safe, comfortable, and effective. Here is what you can expect if you choose to get braces-

Stage I: Initial Consultation

Our experienced dental professionals will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and other digital scans to identify your problematic zone. Once done, they will discuss your goals and create a customized treatment plan for you. 

Stage II: Preparation

Before applying braces, you might need some additional dental work, which will be done to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. 

Stage III: Fitting the Braces

Brackets will be bonded onto your teeth, and an archwire will be threaded through them over time. Also, elastic bands are added to hold the wire in place. 

Stage IV: Adjustment Visits

Your braces will need adjustments every four to eight weeks. Here, your orthodontist will tighten or replace the wires to keep the movement of your teeth in the right direction.

Stage V: Removal and Retainers

Once your teeth are aligned, the braces are removed, and you will get a customized-fit retainer to maintain your new smile. 

Maintenance and Proper Orthodontic Care

Keeping your braces clean and in good condition is the best way to achieve optimum results. Here are some ways on how you can take care of them-

Maintain Proper oral hygiene

After getting braces, you need to brush after every meal using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This will prevent any food particles from getting stuck among the bracelets. 

Dietary Restrictions

There will be dietary restrictions that you have to implement after getting braces, like avoiding any sticky, crunchy, or hard foods, as they can break your braces or bend the wires. 

Regular Checkups

Regular checkups at Navarro Dentistry every four to eight weeks will allow your orthodontist to keep track of the progress of the movement and make necessary changes. 

Handle Discomfort Properly

It is normal to feel mild soreness or discomfort right after getting the braces. If you experience this, don’t panic. Rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater and take a pain reliever if you need one. Apart from that, you can also use orthodontic wax over the brackets or wires to prevent any irritation.

Ensure Proper Protection

It is essential to protect your braces, especially when playing sports or engaging in other intensive activities. Use a mouthguard to prevent any injury. In case your wires or brackets break, contact your orthodontist immediately!

Tips for Orthodontic Care with Braces

• Brush properly for two minutes, focusing more on the brackets and along the gumline. This will prevent any buildup around these areas. 

• Use floss threaders every day to clean between the teeth where your regular floss cannot reach easily. 

• Rinse your mouth with water or fluoride mouthwash after every meal to remove any food particles. 

• Make smart choices when it comes to diet. Choose softer foods and break down the hard items into smaller pieces to prevent any damage to the wires and brackets. 

• Wear your retainers judiciously, as this will prevent your teeth from shifting back to their previous position. 

Takeaway

• Braces have the highest success rate, but they require time and commitment. 

• By following regular check-ups and proper oral hygiene, you can make your journey to a perfect smile more comfortable. 

Ready to experience the magic of dental braces? Connect with our experts at Navarro Dental Center today!