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If you were to ask Dr. Yan Razdolsky the most frequently asked question when patients begin treatment, he would say it’s this: “When do I get my braces off?”
Today we’re sharing five things you can do throughout treatment to help make sure your treatment goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. You’ll be surprised at how easy these tasks are.
1. Floss your teeth.
This removes bits of food that get lodged between teeth and appliances, and reduces gum inflammation. Teeth movement is easier when gums aren’t inflamed. Additionally, flossing removes bacteria that live beneath the gums and interfere with the bone reformation process.
2. Brush your teeth.
Brushing after meals stimulates blood flow to carry away the byproducts of developing cells and to bring in new nutrients. This promotes overall oral health.
3. Maintain orthodontic adjustments at regular intervals.
In modern orthodontics, we try to use the lightest force we possibly can because the body responds better to lighter forces. We use light nickel titanium arch wires for long-acting, low grade force that helps the bones and the ligaments remodel better as your teeth are shifted into proper alignment.
We schedule adjustments in six- to eight-week intervals so we can have the greatest amount of force and time to exert the most positive influence. Want your braces off on time? Keep your appointments.
4. Wear your elastic bands as prescribed.
The elastics add extra force so we can move teeth to improve the bite. Changing elastics a few times each day means that you maintain a reasonably even, low and light force so your teeth can move the way we want.
5. Drink water.
If your body is dehydrated, your mouth is dehydrated. This promotes the overgrowth of bad bacteria, and that takes us back to our first tip about flossing regularly. When you’re hydrated, the lips and cheeks are properly lubricated by your saliva so they’re not irritated by your braces.
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