Crooked teeth can take a negative toll on your self-esteem. You could feel more self-conscious about having to speak to people. You also can be more afraid to smile and show your teeth to others.
If you have decided to get braces in Palm Coast, you are taking the first step in straightening your teeth and improving your smile. You can take care of this dental work by using some common sense tips during the time that the braces are on your teeth.
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
After you are fitted with braces in Palm Coast, your dentist could forget to tell you to use a toothbrush that has soft bristles on your teeth. It can be tempting to use your old toothbrush that has firmer bristles. However, the bristles can actually be too hard and could break off a wire or bracket while you are brushing your teeth.
Some orthodontists give their patients special toothbrushes that have indentations in the bristles to fit around the dental work. You can also find toothbrushes for braces in most pharmacies and big box stores.
Avoid Crunchy Foods
Your dentist will warn you to avoid foods like taffy and gum that are sticky and chewy. However, he or she may neglect to tell you to avoid foods that are overly crunchy and hard as well.
Hard foods can wreak just as much damage on braces as soft foods. They can dent wires, pull off brackets, and even chip teeth that have just been worked on a few hours earlier.
You will want to eat foods that are relatively soft and easy to chew and swallow. Foods like tortilla chips and hard candies will have to be enjoyed after your braces are removed.
Your dentist will usually tell you how to take care of your braces. However, these tips can help to keep them and your teeth in good shape.
