A few years ago, I started thinking carefully about what I could do to improve my smile. I had lived with crooked, yellowed teeth for most of my adult life, and honestly, I just wanted to feel beautiful. I started thinking about working with a cosmetic dentist, and before I knew it, I was in an office getting a complimentary consultation. I learned about a variety of different procedures that could improve my look, and it was really fun. I wanted to create a blog all about making smiles more beautiful, which is why I made this website. Check out this blog for great information about dentistry.
If you wear braces, the holidays can be tricky to navigate, especially if you're going to be attending a lot of family get-togethers. If this will be your first holiday with braces, you might not know how to keep them safe and avoid problems. While you do have to take some precautions with your braces, you don't have to sit on the sidelines while everyone else enjoys the festivities. Here are four steps you should take to avoid problems with your braces.
Watch the Food You Eat
Family get-togethers are usually full of lots of tasty treats to eat. Unfortunately, some of those tasty treats can wreak havoc on your braces. It's okay to enjoy the food that's prepared; just be sure to avoid the dishes and treats that may harm your braces. Be sure to stay away from sticky foods that can get stuck between the wires. You should also avoid hard foods that can damage the brackets. To protect your braces, be sure to ask your orthodontist for a list of foods you should avoid during the holidays.
Keep Your Braces Clean
While you're undergoing orthodontic treatment, your teeth will be susceptible to cavities, especially in the areas around your brackets, where food and bacteria can build up. To avoid harmful bacteria buildup over the holidays, be sure to keep your braces clean. Bring your toothbrush and dental floss with you to the get-togethers. When you're done eating, excuse yourself to the restroom so you can brush and floss your teeth. It's also a good idea to drink plenty of water during the holidays. The water will keep your mouth hydrated and will wash away food particles and germs.
Remember Your Mouth Guard
If your family get-togethers include sporting activities, don't forget your mouth guard. The last thing you want is a mouth injury while you're enjoying time with your family. If you don't have a mouth guard yet, talk to your orthodontist about having one made. Your mouth guard will fit right over your braces and protect your mouth from injuries.
Bring Your Emergency Supplies
You never know when a wire is going to come loose and poke you in the side of your mouth. Loose wires can cause intense pain. Before you head out to your next family get-together, make sure you pack your braces wax and your over-the-counter pain reliever. If a wire comes loose, place a generous amount of wax over the wire. The wax will form a protective cover until you can get to your orthodontist for emergency repairs. Use your over-the-counter pain medication to dull the pain.
Now that you have your braces on, make sure you're prepared for the holidays. The tips provided here will help you enjoy the holidays without any orthodontic mishaps. Talk to an orthodontist like John C. Matunas D.D.S., PA about other ways to care for your braces over the holidays.
Share5 December 2016
