If you are beginning orthodontic treatment this summer, you may have some questions. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about braces and how to enjoy your summer without damaging your teeth!
Q: Are braces guaranteed to work?
A: Braces deliver healthy smile transformations, but only if you are willing to put in the work. As a patient with braces, you need to be confident in your smile and diligent with the care of your teeth! For example, keeping your braces clean is one of the most important things you can do. That means brushing and flossing after every meal (even during a summer day trip!). This significantly boosts the chances of your smile becoming perfectly aligned—without cavities or tooth decay. Although braces can take some getting used to, once you get your braces off, you will have a healthy, beautiful smile…definitely worth the extra oral hygiene steps and trips to the orthodontist!
Q: What do braces do for me?
A: Braces are designed to fix crooked or misaligned teeth. Braces can also fix problems with the jaw and bite—like underbites and overbites. Almost everyone gets braces at some point in their lives. While orthodontic treatment will require some effort on your part (good oral hygiene is key!), braces really do pay off. In the long run, they reduce cavities and periodontal disease, reduce the chance of injury from protruding teeth, and improve the ability to chew food or speak.
Q: Can adults get braces?
A: While it’s a common belief that children or young adults are the only ones with braces, this is entirely untrue. Anyone at any age can get braces. In fact, braces for adults have been shown to be just as effective as braces for children. It is wise, however, to consider getting braces earlier in life, as problems with your teeth are easier to fix sooner rather than later (before the problems worsen).
Q: What activities or foods can I enjoy during the summer—without harming my braces?
A: Fortunately, you can do almost everything that you love with braces this summer! It just may require a little extra planning. For instance, you can still be active. But, you should always aim to wear a mouthguard during sports. Unprotected impact to the mouth can lead to painful oral injuries. You can still spend time with friends, eat out, or travel—just bring along the proper oral hygiene products to keep your braces clean (floss, toothbrush, water bottle) and comfortable (orthodontic wax).
With proper precautions, braces should not stop you from enjoying your summer! Many of your favorite foods are still safe to eat, especially during the summer heat—such as ice cream and popsicles. You should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods since they jeopardize the stability of the wiring of your braces.
Ready to schedule an appointment?
If you are ready to learn more about any of our treatments or want to book a consultation, call us today! From all of us at Hutta & Cook Orthodontics, we hope you are having a happy summer.