Having braces is a big change that will help you have a nice smile. When you have braces, you will need to do some things differently than when normal. You will need to worry about foods you can’t eat, hygiene, and regular maintenance.

Foods You Can’t Eat

When you have braces, you will need to be aware of foods you can’t eat. When you first get your braces, your mouth will probably be sore and achy. You will want to stick to soft foods until your mouth is no longer in pain. When you have braces, you will want to make sure you avoid crunchy foods like nuts and hard candy, chewy food like gummy candy, sticky food like caramel, and hard foods to bite into like whole apples. These foods make your brackets susceptible to breaking off your teeth. You should also avoid foods or drinks that can stain your teeth.

Hygiene

Hygiene is very important when you have braces. You should follow a regular brushing schedule by brushing at least twice a day and for at least two minutes. You may want to brush more often because it is not uncommon for food to get stuck in the brackets. Make sure to brush around the front and back of your teeth and make sure you get around the brackets. Flossing will also be important to your hygiene to get out any extra food that may get stuck. You should make sure you have clean hands when you are brushing, flossing, or taking care of your teeth. Washing your hands is especially critical during the winter when there are viruses going around.

Regular Maintenance

When you have braces you need to go to the orthodontist regularly to get maintenance. These maintenance appointments are essential to getting the perfect smile. When you visit the orthodontist, they will change wires, elastics and occasionally brackets. You can choose which color you want the elastics around the brackets each time you go. Each time you get an adjustment you may notice some pain, which will subside after a couple of days.

When you get braces, you will need to do things a little differently. You need to worry about foods you can’t eat, proper hygiene, and regular maintenance of your braces. Taking extra care of your teeth is how you can ensure you get the perfect smile.

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