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What Steps to Follow for Optimum Post Orthodontic Care?

Getting the straight smile of your dreams through orthodontic treatment is like winning half the battle. The real challenge begins when the braces come off; you enter the crucial aftercare phase. Meandering through this phase wisely is the key to maintaining that straight smile for life.

So are you puzzled about the right steps for the best post-orthodontic care?

Read on to learn more.

How Can You Ensure the Best Aftercare Following Orthodontic Treatment?

Achieving that perfect smile is one thing. Maintaining it is another. Post-orthodontic care is essential to preserve the work done by the braces or aligners. 

Here are some practical steps to ensure your teeth, gums, and orthodontic retainer remain in pristine condition:

Practice Regular Hygiene

Oral hygiene can make or break your teeth’s health. It becomes even more crucial after your orthodontic treatment. The key is to brush your teeth thoroughly, including gums, braces, and wires. Doing so after each meal and bedtime can help keep dental issues at bay. Keep a travel toothbrush handy to clean those hard-to-reach corners. 

Remember, poor oral hygiene can lead to puffy, bleeding gums and even permanent white spots on teeth. This can delay your treatment and compromise your smile. Using an interproximal brush to clean around your braces can add an extra layer of cleanliness. It is the best way to reach between teeth at the gum line, offering comprehensive cleaning.

Be Mindful of Food Choices

Knowing what goes in your mouth after orthodontic treatment can save you from many hassles. Hard food items such as popcorn, ice, and boiled sweets can damage your brackets. Breaking or damaging these brackets can lead to unnecessary interruptions and extensions in your treatment. It’s not just hard foods; certain colored foods and drinks can stain the elastics on your braces. 

Foods with strong colorings, like tomato-based items, curries, coffee, and tea, can result in discolored elastics. So, think twice before any food intake when wearing a brace. Sensible eating habits are pivotal in preserving your braces and maintaining oral health.

Manage Soreness Effectively

Braces are not always comfortable. They often lead to a sore mouth, and the first 2-4 days can be particularly taxing. While the soreness usually subsides by itself, sometimes it may persist even after eating soft food. In such cases, simple over-the-counter medications like Ibuprofen or paracetamol can help provide relief. 

If these steps don’t alleviate the discomfort, it’s time to contact your orthodontist for adjustments. Sore spots in the mouth can be coped with using orthodontic wax, which acts as a cushion over the braces.

Attend Regular Cleanings

Cleanings done by professionals are an excellent way to maintain oral health during your orthodontic treatment. You must visit the hygienist for professional cleaning and home care advice throughout the treatment. These cleanings are highly recommended, as they help ensure your teeth remain in the best possible condition, even while your treatment is ongoing.

In addition to these essential maintenance practices, cold sore laser treatment can also be done, which efficiently helps to reduce the discomfort and length of cold sores episodes. This treatment can be a great addition to your regular dental care routine. These methods collectively ensure your oral health remains optimal even throughout orthodontic treatment.

Monitor Your Jaw Joint Health

A rare but possible occurrence during or after orthodontic treatment can be issues with the jaw joint. Some may experience popping, clicking, or other discomfort. Depending on the case, some patients may undergo smile rejuvenation with cosmetic dentistry to restore their smile and overall facial aesthetic. 

However, rest assured that pre-existing joint conditions are likely to manifest post-treatment, but they’re unlikely to be caused by the treatment itself. Be aware of any unusual feelings or sounds, and promptly inform your orthodontist if you experience such symptoms.

Deal With Problems Promptly

No one wants to imagine problems during orthodontic treatment, but they can occur. If you experience discomfort, broken brackets, or issues with wires, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist right away. Delaying a visit could make the problem worse and potentially extend treatment time. Sometimes even the best care can’t prevent minor mishaps, like a loose bracket or a poking wire. In these instances, using orthodontic wax until your next appointment can relieve discomfort.

Final Thoughts

Achieving that dream smile is one thing; preserving it is another, and it’s often overlooked. Remember, post-orthodontic care isn’t just about maintaining hygiene. It’s also about being mindful of your food choices, managing discomfort effectively, and making regular dental visits. Listen to your body, watch out for symptoms, and address issues swiftly should they arise. Your beautiful smile is a lifelong asset. With a little care and attention, it will last for years. 

So, keep sparkling, keep shining, and let your smile do the talking.

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