When you get your braces, you may notice your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal, and we promise your mouth will not be sore forever! To relieve the pain, we recommend dissolving one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water. Swish and gargle this solution in your mouth for just a couple of minutes, but do not swallow the salt water.
If the pain is more severe and does not go away after rinsing, you can also try taking a pain reliever. It is not uncommon for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become used to the braces. Discover the transformative power of Richmond Hill braces.
We would be happy to give you some wax you can put over the braces to lessen the tenderness. If you need some wax, please let us know.
It’s completely normal for your teeth to feel a bit loose initially. Clear metal braces work by gently loosening your teeth to facilitate proper repositioning. Once the desired alignment is achieved, your teeth will no longer be loose.
If you notice loose wires or bands on your braces, contact us promptly for a check and repair. Save any detached pieces and bring them to the office. In the meantime, you can temporarily fix a loose wire by gently pushing it back into place using the back of a spoon or the eraser end of a pencil. If the wire causes irritation, applying wax or a wet cotton ball can help relieve discomfort.
Consistent care of your appliances is crucial to avoid any setbacks in your treatment process. Adhering to the prescribed use of rubber bands, headgear, retainers, or other appliances is essential for the successful movement of your teeth and jaw into their correct positions.
Absolutely! Athletes can continue playing sports during orthodontic treatment. We recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect both your teeth and the appliance. If you need assistance finding the right mouthguard for optimal protection, let us know. In case of a sports emergency, check your mouth and appliance immediately for any damage. If you observe loose teeth or appliance damage, contact our office promptly. Temporary relief can be achieved by applying wax or rinsing your mouth with warm salt water.
Effective cleaning is crucial during orthodontic treatment. If you encounter challenges cleaning your braces, consider using interdental brushes, floss threaders, or an orthodontic toothbrush. Our team can provide personalized recommendations and guidance on maintaining optimal oral hygiene with braces. Regular dental check-ups are also essential to address any concerns and ensure your braces remain in good condition. If you have specific cleaning-related questions, feel free to reach out to our office for assistance.