What can you do to speed up your orthodontic treatment?
We know that no one wants to be wearing braces longer than necessary. The good news is that there are steps you can take to keep your treatment on schedule and achieve your new, straighter smile sooner rather than later.
Much of this comes down to following your orthodontist's instructions. By listening to your orthodontist, you can avoid potential complications and complete treatment in the expected timeframe.
Below, we have shared some tips and advice on how you can keep your orthodontic treatment on track. Read on to learn more.
Don't Eat Foods That Are Listed as Off-Limits
There's a reason certain foods are listed as off-limits during orthodontic treatment. Hard or chewy foods, such as popcorn, nuts and gum, can break brackets, bend wires, or loosen braces. If you experience broken braces, it can not only cause discomfort but can also lead to longer treatment times. As tempting as it may be, a little treat is not worth the delay that you might experience during treatment.
Wear a Mouth Guard to Protect Your Teeth During Sports
You will need to take good care of your orthodontic appliances throughout treatment. In some cases, you may want to take additional precautions, such as while playing sports. A mouthguard can protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances while you participate in any sport or physical activity.
Have Broken Orthodontic Appliances Fixed Right Away
If you experience loose wires or broken brackets, or if you lose your Invisalign trays, you should contact your orthodontist right away. If your orthodontic devices are compromised, so is the potential outcome of your treatment.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment
While you should be sure to clean your teeth after each meal, you should do so gently, with a soft-bristled toothbrush, especially if you have braces. Brushing too hard can lead to broken brackets. You can ask your orthodontist about tools that may be able to make cleaning your teeth easier throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Always Wear Your Orthodontic Appliances as Prescribed
Additional orthodontic appliances, like rubber bands, are designed to assist in the movement of your teeth. If you neglect to wear these devices correctly, it may lengthen your treatment time considerably.
Keep Up With Routine Checkups
You will need to visit your orthodontist at regular intervals throughout your treatment. This is usually every four to six weeks, although this varies from case to case and between types of treatment. During these visits, your orthodontist will perform a quick examination to ensure that your teeth are moving as planned that there is no damage to your orthodontic appliances; and if you have braces, they will change your elastics during this visit as well.
Call Your Orthodontist if You Have Any Questions
If you ever have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to your orthodontic team right away. The sooner any potential issues are addressed, the better.