7 Common Braces Wearing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Did you know that the orthodontics market will be worth over $7.5 billion by 2030? This number proves that orthodontic braces are on the rise.

Braces are a popular form of teeth care that many people have enjoyed over the years. Before you begin your journey to perfect straight teeth, there are things you need to know. Avoiding wearing mistakes can make your journey more sustainable and successful.

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about common braces wearing mistakes. Read on to find all the key points and maintain your braces.

1. Wearing Your Braces Too Tightly

One common mistake when wearing braces is wearing them too tightly. This can lead to increased pain, discomfort, and irritation. This will also increase the amount of time it takes to adjust to wearing your braces.

To avoid this problem, be sure to have your orthodontist check and adjust your braces as needed throughout your treatment. Be sure to communicate any pain, tightness, or discomfort to your orthodontist at that time.

Following any subsequent adjustments, your orthodontist should ask how you are feeling and whether the braces are too tight. Additionally, carefully follow any instructions given by your orthodontist to help reduce further irritation.

2. Incorrectly Placing Elastics on Brackets

Brackets are metal pieces attached to the front teeth that hold the archwire in place. Elastics, or rubber bands, create pressure and help guide teeth into the correct position. Placing the elastics incorrectly on the brackets can cause pain and impede the movement of teeth to the desired location.

To avoid this mistake, align the elastics correctly on the brackets and change them out regularly. Additionally, wear the elastics as instructed by the orthodontist, as improperly wearing elastics can cause discomfort and increase treatment time.

Lastly, replace elastics on the same side of the bracket to ensure the correct pressure and tension. Following these steps will help ensure correct and comfortable braces wearing. Go here if you need more information on kids braces.

3. Eating Foods You Shouldn’t With Braces

When it comes to eating with braces, there are certain foods you should avoid to ensure your braces stay in good condition. Avoid biting into hard and crunchy foods, like nuts and popcorn, as well as sticky and chewy food items like licorice and caramel. Braces are delicate and these types of snacks can easily damage the brackets and bend the wires.

It’s also important to avoid using your front teeth to bite into food, as this will put more pressure on the brackets. If it’s hard to bite into foods, use the molars to break them apart, or try to use utensils to cut them into smaller pieces. Just remember to take your time when eating and choose soft, easy-to-chew foods that won’t interfere with your braces.

4. Skipping Orthodontic Appointments

It is very important to keep up with these appointments with your orthodontist. This ensures that your braces are adjusted correctly, and your treatment is progressing properly.

Without these appointments, you may not be able to get your teeth back in the right alignment. This could potentially extend the amount of time that you need to wear braces.

To make sure that you are able to successfully achieve a healthy, aligned smile, make sure to never miss a scheduled appointment. If you must miss one, be sure to contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to reschedule. Taking this extra step can help you get your teeth back in line.

5. Forgetting to Brush and Floss Around Braces

When braces are in place, it can be difficult to clean all the food and other particles that can get stuck in them. If these particles are not removed, plaque and bacteria can build up, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. To avoid this, it is important to brush the braces at least twice daily and make sure to floss around the wires and brackets.

Special tools, such as a proxy brush, can reach around the wires effectively. When brushing, use a small-headed toothbrush and soft bristles. Be sure to direct your brush strokes towards the gum line and in between teeth, adjusting the angle of the brush to ensure all surfaces are cleaned.

Additionally, using a water flosser or a fluoride mouthwash rinse can help to loosen trapped food particles and make them easier to brush away. This will help you avoid tooth decay and gum disease while wearing braces.

6. Overcorrecting

This happens when people are too enthusiastic about their orthodontic treatment and try to rapidly close large gaps or overly straighten their teeth. Unfortunately, this can cause significant issues for the structure of their teeth, leading to longer treatment times and costly damage.

It’s important to follow the instructions of your orthodontist in preventing braces damage. It is also essential to take your time making adjustments to your orthodontic treatment. Additionally, if the pain is felt or tooth structure or gumline appears to be changing too quickly, it’s best to ask your orthodontist for help before making any individual adjustments.

7. Not Wearing a Mouthguard While Playing Contact Sports

Failing to wear a mouthguard could result in serious injury or damage to your braces and teeth. The constant contact and physical trauma associated with playing contact sports can cause the brackets and wires on braces to break or bend.

To avoid making this mistake, it is important to speak to your orthodontist about acquiring a protective mouthguard before engaging in contact sports. Orthodontists can customize a mouthguard to meet the needs of patients with braces and can provide guidance on proper installation. Wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports is a necessity for those in braces and can help avoid costly damage and injury.

Evading the Common Braces Wearing Mistakes

Making sure that braces are properly cared for can make a major difference in how quickly the treatment works. Braces wearers should follow the dentist’s instructions for eating, brushing, and other care to help the braces work effectively.

By avoiding common braces wearing mistakes, and following guidelines, people can enjoy straight, healthy teeth sooner. Visit your local orthodontist or dentist today to discuss the types of braces that are best for you.

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