A few decades ago, the only option that patients with crooked teeth had were braces. Although braces have come a long way from the traditional metallic design, adults are still reluctant to use them. Luckily, clear braces are an alternative treatment that patients can rely on today to straighten their teeth and improve their bite. Unfortunately, most patients know very little about what to expect upon getting clear braces. Therefore, they end up surprised and overwhelmed at how much they did not know. This article highlights critical tips for using clear braces.
Brush More Than You Expect
Unlike traditional metallic braces that stay in place even when you eat, clear braces are the exact opposite. They are made from clear plastic to form a tray-like mould that fits inside the teeth. Therefore, you should remove them before eating and brush your teeth before putting the braces back on. Unfortunately, most people think that merely rinsing their teeth with water after eating a simple snack is enough. However, nothing could be further from the truth, especially if you love eating snacks throughout the day. Orthodontists advise patients to brush their teeth after every single meal. Therefore, you should be ready to brush your teeth more often. It goes a long way in preventing plaque buildup inside the braces and bad breath.
Plan Your Meals Effectively
Most people agree that until you wear clear braces and realise that you cannot just eat whenever you wish, it is easy to adopt an unbalanced diet. The reason is that prying clear braces off your teeth frequently can be somewhat uncomfortable. It is mostly the case during the first few weeks when your teeth still feel sore. Consequently, most people prefer to remove the braces only when they feel comfortable, leading to poor eating habits. Planning your meals ensures that your body receives adequate nutrition. It also minimises irritation of the teeth by reducing the number of times you take off your braces.
Stay Away From Lipstick and Lip Balm
Today, men and women love to take care of their lips to prevent unsightly chapping. Thus, lipstick and lip balm are common beauty accessories in the country. Unfortunately, the accessories do not go well with clear braces. Coloured lipstick is prone to sticking on the surface of clear braces, making the wearer look awkward. Although clear lip balm is okay, it tends to leave a waxy layer on the aligners, which most people find uncomfortable. Therefore, try to stay away from these beauty accessories when wearing clear braces.
To learn more about clear braces, such as Invisalign, talk to a dentist in your area.
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