Having an amazing smile is one of the quickest ways to feel confident about yourself. The unfortunate reality for many teens is that their teeth aren’t always in the ideal position for that gorgeous grin. Braces are the go-to solution for such dental issues, but there are some things you should know about getting braces before you jump in.
Consider Your Options
Braces have come a long way since their inception. There are different types of braces, each with their own pros and cons. Traditional metal braces are the tried and true method that has been proven to work over the years. The downside is that they are the most noticeable, which can take some getting used to. Ceramic braces are generally more tooth-colored, making them less obvious while still being effective. They do tend to be more expensive though, and can stain if not cared for properly. For the most subtle appearance, Invisalign uses clear trays to gently move teeth into the desired position. Since they are removable, no dietary adjustments are necessary. That said, they are expensive, easily lost, and costly to replace. They also don’t work well for serious dental cases.
Food Restrictions
Aside from potentially impacting the appearance of clear braces, certain foods should be avoided when wearing braces. It is harder to clean plaque from teeth when you have braces. Some foods can potentially damage or break your braces as well. To prevent such problems, avoid consuming foods such as hard or chewy candies, nuts, popcorn, gum, and tough breads like pizza crusts or bagels.
Caring for Braces
Wearing braces means you’ll need to be more vigilant about your dental hygiene. Since most forms of braces are adhered to your teeth, careful care must be given to avoid having discolored portions of your teeth upon removal. Make sure you brush regularly and floss daily. Carefully clean your braces, being sure to remove elastics and any other removable parts of the appliance. Check your teeth carefully and bring up any issues with your orthodontist.
Braces can be useful, and the benefits can be incredible. If you want to have the best experience when it comes to braces, you need to be familiar with your options. Make sure you know what foods you shouldn’t eat and how to care for them properly. This will help them do their job so that the end result is a dazzling smile that you’re proud to show off.
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