We all want to have that perfect, white and shiny smile. I mean come on, who doesn't? Braces have helped turn people’s smiles and confidence around completely. If you or your child is looking to get braces in the near future, you probably don't know where to start. What is the process? How much do they cost? Do they hurt? These are all valid and frequently asked questions. Here are 5 things you should know about before committing to getting your braces.
The first thing to understand is that braces aren’t solely for improving the look of your smile. While Orthodontists help with the desire of patients to have straight teeth, braces also help with the correction of teeth, your bite, and jaw alignment. Improving these issues all helps with overall oral health.
The second thing to consider is that you may need to get dental work done first before implementing the braces. You might have to get a deep clean and removal of wisdom teeth before getting your braces. This is to reduce complications with orthodontic treatment.
One thing that many people may not realize is that when you get braces, you have to change your diet. The best way to begin fixing your diet is to start before you get braces. You will need to eliminate things such as gummy and sticky foods. These include gummy bears/worms, caramel, taffy, and jerky. This is because they can latch onto the wire and cause further complications.
Lastly, brushing and flossing will be more important than ever before. The addition of braces makes brushing your teeth a little more difficult. The best practice is to get a mobile travel kit equipped with dental materials. This will help to maintain the braces and keep your teeth clean both at home and while out and about. Items can easily get stuck between the brackets, wire, and your teeth. Brushing and flossing routinely will ensure a healthy change in your teeth as well as maintain a fresh breath.
Smile for a Lifetime is an international charity that provides orthodontic care to disadvantaged children and young adults who normally would not be able to afford treatment. It is their mission to create self-confidence, inspire hope, and change the lives of children in our communities in a dramatic way. The orthodontic Treatment is FREE, including the cost of one set of retainers. All you pay is a one-time application fee to get started.