Getting braces can be life changing. Not only will they let you straighten your teeth, but they’ll also improve your facial structure, oral health, and boost your self confidence levels.
However many people find that after they get braces they still have lots of issues. In most cases that is because of mistakes that they make – some of which could even affect the effectiveness of the braces they’re wearing.
If you’d rather not end up in the same boat, here are six key braces mistakes that you need to avoid:
Waiting too long before you get braces
While braces are suitable for any and all age groups, it is best to get them as early as possible. Orthodontists generally recommend that kids as early as age eight can have braces installed, so that corrections can be made early.
Getting braces from a dentist instead of an orthodontist
First and foremost, you should make sure you get your braces from a certified orthodontist as opposed to a general dentist. An orthodontist is more specialized and will have both the experience and expertise that is necessary to recommend the best treatment plan for your teeth.
Not looking at all your options
Nowadays there are many different types of braces out there aside from the conventional metal braces. It would be a mistake to rush to a decision and instead you should look at all your options, ask your orthodontist for recommendations, and make an informed decision.
Delaying or skipping orthodontist appointments
Once you have braces you’ll need to periodically make trips to your orthodontist for follow-up appointments. Each trip is necessary as it will let the orthodontist monitor your progress and make adjustments. If you delay appointments or skip them entirely you’ll be delaying the progress of your treatment.
Eating food that you should avoid
When you get braces your orthodontist will likely advise you on all the types of food you need to avoid (i.e. hard, crunchy, chewy, or sticky). If you ignore that advice and eat those types of food then you run the risk of damaging the brackets and wires of your braces – which will make them lose their effectiveness.
Not practicing proper oral hygiene
Throughout the time that you’re wearing braces it is important that you take care of your oral hygiene so that you don’t end up with cavities or gum disease that could affect your treatment. Because of the brackets you’re wearing it can be more difficult to brush and floss – so you need to make extra effort to clean your teeth properly.
Regardless of whether you’re getting orthodontic braces in Birmingham or some other location, you should pay close attention to the instructions you’re given and follow them as closely as possible. If you do that as well as avoid the key mistakes listed above, you should be able to ensure that your treatment goes smoothly and you end up with a beautiful set of straight teeth.
