Life With Braces
If you have taken that exciting step toward a new smile by getting braces, a few things are going to change. We are happy to share what to expect for life with braces in Almaden Valley and San Jose, California. Read our tips below, and feel free to call Almaden Valley Surfside Kids Dental at 408-770-9383 to schedule a visit with our orthodontist, Dr. Derick Phan, and our team of specialists if you have any additional questions.
When you begin wearing braces, it is important to take good care of them throughout your treatment. Keeping your braces in good condition helps ensure that your treatment progresses as planned. Below are a few guidelines to help you keep your braces in top shape and care for your teeth properly during treatment.
Eating With Braces
There are some foods you should avoid while wearing braces to prevent damaging them. These include:
- Chewy foods — such as bagels and licorice
- Crunchy foods — such as popcorn, ice and chips
- Sticky foods — such as caramel and chewing gum
- Hard foods — such as nuts and hard candies
- Foods that require biting into — such as corn on the cob, raw carrots and uncut apples
Soreness Caused by Braces and Appliances
Your teeth and mouth may feel tender or sore when you first begin wearing braces. This should go away within a few days. Your lips, cheeks and tongue may become irritated for the first few weeks while your mouth adjusts. Our orthodontist can provide you with dental wax to put over your braces to help relieve tenderness and discomfort. You may also take a mild over-the-counter pain reliever.
Loose Teeth
Your teeth might feel a little loose as your treatment progresses. This is normal and is caused by the gradual repositioning of your teeth. Once your teeth reach their proper position, they will stop feeling loose.
Loose Wires and Bands
If the wires and bands on your braces come loose, call our office immediately so we can check your braces and make any needed repairs or adjustments. If a piece of your appliance breaks off, save the piece and bring it with you to your appointment.
Take Care of Your Appliances
Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment. Your teeth and jaw can only move into their proper positions when your appliances are in good condition and worn consistently. Take good care of your appliances and wear your headgear, retainer, rubber bands or other appliances exactly as directed.
Sports, Musical Instruments and Braces
You can still play sports and musical instruments while wearing braces. We recommend wearing an athletic mouth guard to protect your teeth, gums and appliances during sporting activities. You may need to make a few adjustments while playing a musical instrument, but your braces should not cause any lasting problems.
If you have any other questions about life with braces in San Jose, please feel free to contact our office at 408-770-9383.
