How Do Braces Work?
Braces are a tried and true orthodontic treatment. They work by progressively moving teeth in a precise direction by exerting sustained pressure over time. Braces accomplish this by connecting brackets with an archwire. The archwire applies pressure to the brackets and teeth, gradually bringing them into appropriate alignment.
You’ll see Dr. Simmons for an adjustment every 4-6 weeks. He will tighten the archwire to create more pressure and shift the teeth somewhat more throughout these appointments. Adjustments must be made on a regular basis to ensure the effectiveness of your treatment plan!
Braces may also comprise elastic bands, springs, or other components to assist in moving teeth into their proper locations. These things operate in tandem to provide you with the grin you deserve! Your teeth will be fixed in no time if you maintain continuous care.
Do Braces Hurt?
While getting braces put on can be uncomfortable at first, most patients say that they adjust to their braces pretty quickly. Thanks to modern dental technology, braces are more comfortable and stylish than ever before. While you adjust to your new braces, you can take over-the-counter medications to alleviate the discomfort. We will also provide wax that will help if any of the brackets are causing pain. If you do experience prolonged pain or discomfort, we highly encourage you to reach out to our team at Kinetic Braces right away so we can examine your braces and make any necessary adjustments.
What Foods Will I Have To Avoid When Getting Braces?
During your braces treatment, it’s best to avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or require tearing into. These foods could potentially bend your wires or get caught in your brackets. It’s best to avoid them altogether until your treatment is complete.
Foods To Avoid:
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- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Apples
- Chips
- Gum
- Ice
- Thin crust pizza
- Corn on the cob
- Raw vegetables
- Sticky or hard candy
Foods To Enjoy:
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- Yogurt
- Jello or pudding
- Soft fruit with no pits (i.e., strawberries, blueberries, bananas, grapes, oranges)
- Peanut butter
- Pasta dishes (i.e., ravioli, buttered noodles, spaghetti, mac n cheese)
- Soups
- Oatmeal
- Eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft cheeses
- Chewy rolls/bread
- Ice cream
During your treatment, it’s essential to maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet. If you follow our recommended foods list, your teeth will be in tip-top condition by the end of your treatment!
How Do I Care For My Teeth While Wearing Braces?
After Dr. Simmons finishes installing your braces, he will give you detailed instructions on how to take care of your teeth during treatment. Here are some quick takeaways to keep in mind:
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- Brush and floss after every meal
- Use a water flosser once a day
- Check the mirror when you’re cleaning (to help see any spots you may have missed)
Should I Continue To See My Family Dentist While In Braces?
Yes! Dr. Simmons and his team work closely with your regular dentist to ensure you’re receiving all the care and support you need during your treatment. By keeping your routine dental cleanings, you’re ensuring the health of your teeth during treatment, and when those braces finally come off, they will look better than ever!
How Much Do Braces Cost?
The cost of braces is determined by the severity of your case, the type of braces you select, and other variables. Kinetic Braces provides a range of payment alternatives to ensure that your treatment works within your budget. If orthodontic treatment is covered under your insurance policy, we will also work with you to ensure you receive the most out of your benefits.