Clear aligners are custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Each aligner exerts gentle pressure, gradually moving your teeth into the desired position. This post explains how the process works.
4 Tips for Surviving Your First Week with Braces
Starting your journey with braces is an exciting step toward a perfect smile, but the first week can be challenging. At Glander Rochford Orthodontics in Indianapolis, IN, we understand that adjusting to braces takes a bit of time and care. Here are four essential tips to help you navigate your first week with braces smoothly:
4 Tips for Surviving Your First week with braces
1. Manage Discomfort with the Right Foods
It’s normal to experience some discomfort when you first get braces. Your teeth and mouth may feel sore as they begin to adjust to the new pressure. To alleviate discomfort, stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can irritate your braces and cause additional pain. Eating softer foods will also help you avoid damaging your new braces.
2. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Braces can make oral hygiene a bit more challenging, but it's crucial to keep your teeth and braces clean to avoid plaque buildup and potential complications. Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss daily; consider using orthodontic flossers or a water flosser to reach between your braces and wires. Regular brushing and flossing will help keep your smile healthy and your braces in good condition.
3. Use Orthodontic Wax to Reduce Irritation
In the first week with braces, you might experience irritation in your mouth, particularly where the brackets and wires come into contact with the inside of your lips and cheeks. Orthodontic wax can be a lifesaver in this situation. Apply a small amount of wax over the areas that are causing irritation to create a smooth barrier between your braces and the sensitive tissues in your mouth. This will help reduce discomfort and prevent sores.
4. Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Your orthodontist will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your braces. These appointments are essential for ensuring that your treatment is on track and that your braces are functioning correctly. Make sure to attend all scheduled appointments and communicate any issues or concerns you may have. At Glander Rochford Orthodontics, we’re committed to making your orthodontic journey as comfortable and effective as possible.
By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to handle the initial adjustment period and set yourself up for a successful orthodontic experience. If you have any questions or need additional support during your first week with braces, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Glander Rochford Orthodontics in Indianapolis, IN. We're here to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile!
Is Back to School a Good Time to Start Braces?
For many families in Indianapolis, IN and Greenwood, IN the back-to-school season signals a return to routines and schedules. It's also a popular time to consider orthodontic treatment like braces for children and teens. At Glander Rochford Orthodontics, we often get asked if starting braces during this time is a good idea. Let's explore why it can be advantageous and how we can help make the transition smoother.
Invisalign Palatal Expander System
What to Expect At Your First Orthodontic Consultation
Embarking on your orthodontic journey can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially if it's your first time visiting an orthodontic office. At Glander Rochford Orthodontics in Indianapolis, IN, our team is committed to providing you with a seamless and positive experience from the moment you walk through our doors.
Holiday Magic in Indianapolis and Greenwood: 5 Festive Activities Courtesy of Glander Rochford Orthodontics
The holiday season is upon us, and Glander Rochford Orthodontics is excited to share the festive spirit in Indianapolis and Greenwood, Indiana. While you're busy preparing for the holidays, we invite you to partake in the fun of the season with these delightful activities.. At Glander Rochford Orthodontics, we're not just about straightening teeth; we're also here to brighten your holiday season. Here are five wonderful holiday activities to enjoy in the area
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Can I Play Sports with Braces?
It’s fall in Indiana, which has the Glander Rochford Orthodontics team thinking about football, basketball, and all things sports!
We hear the question “can I play sports with braces?” all the time. It’s an important thing to consider, because there is an increased risk to certain mouth injuries when you are wearing traditional braces with brackets. This is true for children and adults that are active in any way, not just sports.