Are you or your child about to start the journey with braces to a straighter, healthier smile? While the process of getting braces can be challenging, the results are definitely worthwhile. We'll discuss some of the biggest challenges people encounter during orthodontic treatment and offer solutions to make it more tolerable and comfortable. The three main challenges you might encounter are examined below.
1. Getting Used to Brushing Your Teeth
Getting used to your new oral hygiene routine will be one of the first difficulties you'll face after getting braces. The landscape that braces create in your mouth is very different from what you're used to. Once you get your braces, it is more important than ever to practice excellent oral hygiene because the wires and brackets can catch food particles.
Considering all the crevices and nooks braces create, you might initially find it difficult to brush your teeth effectively. The good news is that it gets simpler with time and the right equipment. Investing in a good electric toothbrush allows you to clean around braces more effectively, as well as using a water flosser to get rid of food particles from awkward places. Your orthodontist can advise you on the best cleaning procedures and suggest products that can help the process go more smoothly.
2. Speech Difficulties
Especially with some types of braces or orthodontic appliances, speech can be temporarily affected. The mouth has to adjust to the new hardware, which can lead to a temporary lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
3. Getting Past the Cheek and Gum Irritation
Another common issue you may have in the early stages of orthodontic treatment is irritation produced by your braces. Brackets and wires frequently rub on your cheeks and gums, causing discomfort and, in some cases, small blisters.
Orthodontic wax is your best friend in overcoming this challenge. This soft, flexible wax can be put on the sharp edges of your braces to provide a smooth surface and keep them from scraping against sensitive areas of your mouth. Your orthodontist will demonstrate the correct wax application and may even offer you with some during your sessions. You can considerably lessen the discomfort caused by your braces with a little skill and the use of wax.
4. . Getting Past the Pressure and Soreness
Periodically, your braces will need to be adjusted as your orthodontic treatment goes forward. You could experience a degree of soreness and pressure in your mouth as these adjustments are being made. This is perfectly normal, and is generally a sign that your braces are successfully repositioning your teeth into the desired positions.
5. Difficulty Eating
Biting into certain foods can be uncomfortable or even damaging to braces. People often have to adjust their diets to avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods. They might also have to cut food into smaller pieces to make chewing easier.
A diet consisting of soft foods, and taking over-the-counter painkillers (when needed) can be used to treat the soreness. This soreness typically lasts a few days after every adjustment. As your teeth adjust to their new alignment, discomfort can be reduced by eating softer foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups. In the event of any irritation, warm saltwater rinses can also be soothing and aid in healing.
6. Unexpected Breakages
Sometimes brackets can come off, or wires can break or poke the inside of the mouth. These situations require prompt attention, which can be inconvenient.
Remember that obtaining braces can be difficult at first, but only for a short time. You'll become accustomed to your new oral hygiene practice as your treatment proceeds. And when your teeth shift into their optimal places, the discomfort will reduce. Regularly seeing your orthodontist is critical. With each visit, your orthodontist will monitor your progress and make the necessary adjustments to help you achieve the perfect smile.
The hurdles that come with getting braces can be overcome with the right tools, good care, and just a little bit of patience. Trust the process, exercise proper dental hygiene, and rely on your orthodontist for a confident, beautiful smile.
