What Types of Braces Do We Offer at Braces Now?
At Braces Now, we currently offer three types of braces: traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Iconix® AO braces. Each type generally functions in the same way, but each offers different aesthetics and benefits. Our team will work with you to find the best solution for straightening your teeth and giving you a radiant smile.
How Can I Take Care of My Braces?
Knowing how to take care of your braces can result in a more streamlined treatment process. Proper maintenance can also help prevent gum disease and other issues from arising.
Will I Need to Brush More Often?
When you have braces, you will want to brush and floss your teeth more regularly, especially after eating. A meticulous oral hygiene routine can prevent buildup that could lead to other issues, such as cavities and gum disease.
Braces are both a financial investment and an investment in improving your lifestyle, and they should be treated with the care and detailed attention that any other investment would receive. Our team can help provide you with the tips, tricks, and tools you need to ensure that your oral hygiene stays top-notch throughout treatment.
What Foods Do I Need to Avoid?
- Chewy foods like bagels or licorice that need to be torn with your teeth
- Crunchy foods like chips and popcorn
- Hard foods such as nuts, corn on the cob, carrots, or hard candies
- Sticky foods such as gums or caramel
What Foods Can I Eat?
- Soft cheeses, pudding, or other dairy products
- Soft bread including pancakes, muffins, or tortillas
- Rice, pasta, and other cooked grains
- Meats like sliced lunch meat, soft chicken, and meatballs
- Crab cakes, salmon, tuna, and other seafood
- Mashed potatoes, beans, and spinach
- Fruits like bananas and applesauce
- Milkshakes, Jell-O, and ice cream (without any nuts)
Should I Still Visit My Dentist?
Another frequently asked question we receive is whether patients should continue to visit their dentist. The answer is yes! Your dentist can monitor your oral health and help you get a deeper cleaning around your braces to remove any buildup. They can also help recommend tools for excellent hygiene including toothpaste, toothbrushes, and flossing tools.
Will My Braces Hurt?
It’s not uncommon to feel soreness and tenderness from your braces, especially when you first get your braces and after routine adjustments at our office. Also at the beginning of your treatment, you may feel some irritation from the brackets rubbing against your gums. However, using dental wax can solve this issue. Just ask one of our team members to give you some at your next appointment.
For more on this question, check out our video below.
How Long Will It Take to Get Straight Teeth?
The treatment times for every patient can vary, with some factors being:
- How well the patient responds to braces
- How severe their oral issues are
- If they’re regularly maintaining their hygiene and proper braces care
Although there’s no set timeframe, most patients finish treatments within 12 to 24 months. However, some treatment times can be longer depending on the severity of issues needing correcting.
Can I Maintain My Normal Activities?
You can still lead a fulfilling lifestyle while wearing braces. Braces won’t slow you down whether playing sports, singing, or playing an instrument! Just make sure to take proper precautions during sporting events. Should an orthodontic emergency occur, contact our office right away to schedule an appointment and for advice on how to best handle the situation.
What Happens When I Finish Treatment?
When your braces come off, you’ll be given a retainer to wear full-time for four to six months that you’ll only remove for brushing, eating, and drinking. You can then move to wear your retainer only at night while sleeping to maintain the new alignment of your smile. Proper retainer wear is key for ensuring your new perfect smile lasts a lifetime!
