With the dawn of a new year, countless individuals are contemplating the ways in which they might improve themselves and their lives in 2023. To that end, many are formalizing those intentions by setting defined resolutions they will strive to keep throughout the 12 months to come. If you are among those currently wearing braces as part of an orthodontic treatment plan, consider making dental health a main focus of these personal pledges, using the following tips to help ensure success.
Heed Your Orthodontist’s Directives
No matter if your personalized orthodontic plan calls for the use of rubber bands, headgear, retainers, or the like, it is critical that you stick to the instructions provided by your practitioner. Wearing all prescribed appliances when and how you are told to is the best way to make certain that you achieve the outcome you desire in as short a time as possible. Failing to do so will only prolong your treatment time and reduce your chances of ending up with the stunning smile everyone seeks.
Maintain Your Brushing and Flossing Routines
Everyone needs to brush and floss twice daily to maintain the health of their teeth and gums, and this is particularly vital for those currently wearing braces or even Invisalign retainers. It is far too easy for food particles to become trapped in wires and brackets, not to mention the nooks and crannies of teeth themselves. This, in turn, may lead to a greater risk of gum disease and tooth decay. The good news is that the dangers can be reduced with diligent, twice daily brushing and flossing combined with additional attention paid after meals.
Always Use Your Mouthguard
Orthodontic patients who are physically active or who participate in organized sports should always wear their mouth-guards in order to prevent damage to their appliances as well as their natural teeth. Our team is experienced in creating custom mouth-guards to fit each patient’s unique needs, and these can even be fabricated to feature team colors, something that adds to their appeal.
Choose Your Foods Wisely
Though there are sure to be many occasions and opportunities to indulge in treats over the course of the new year, it is important to remember the risks to braces and retainers posed by chewy, stick, and hard food items. While you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, it is best to avoid things like nuts, caramel, and popcorn as much as possible. Vigilance in this regard can help prevent unwanted extensions of your treatment plan by keeping your progress on track at all times.
New Year, New Smile
The beginning of a new year really can be a time for fresh starts and the adoption of beneficial new habits. We encourage you to take this time to evaluate the ways in which you can commit to better oral health so that you get the most out of your orthodontic treatment plan. If you would like to learn more about maximizing your results or improving your overall smile, schedule an appointment with our team of orthodontists today.