Braces – Everything You Need To Know About Orthodontics In Murphy

Your children always make you smile – they’re both in high school now, and it’s inspiring to see your son excelling in basketball and your daughter making waves on the chess team, while they both maintain their spots on the honor roll. And when your kids smile back at you, you know they inherited more than just their intelligence from their parents – they’ve also got your crooked teeth. You know it’s time for braces, but you’re not sure where to start when it comes to orthodontics in Murphy. In this post, the team at Murphy Family Dentistry teach you everything you need to know about braces.

What Should I Expect When Getting Braces?

Dr. Jacquie Nguyen and Dr. Masoud Najari explain the most important aspects of braces for kids, as well as adults. They always educate their patients on the following FAQs about orthodontic treatment.

#1 – Great Treatment At Any Age

Braces aren’t just for kids and adolescents – they’re a perfect way to straighten your teeth no matter how old you are.

#2 – Straight Teeth, Healthy Teeth

Teeth that are aligned properly are less susceptible to cavities and gum disease since correct placement allows for easy cleaning.

#3 – Schedule A Cleaning First

Since your teeth need to be clean for the dental cement to properly secure your braces to your teeth, schedule a cleaning before you have them placed.

#4 – Time Expectations

Generally speaking, treatment for braces is around 18 months to 2 years. Time will fly by and you’ll be amazed by your results when your treatment is completed.

#5 – Diet Changes

Since brackets can become dislodged with certain foods, you’ll need to avoid popcorn, chewing gum, tacky caramels, and the like. But don’t worry, you can still soft treats like ice cream.

#6 – Flossing

Since flossing can be a challenge because of the wires, you may need to switch to a water flosser, or use extra special care to thread the floss between the wires – if you go this route, be sure to use waxed dental floss to make things easier.

#7 – Expect Some Discomfort

Since braces will move your teeth – and your jaw, if you have bite issues – into place, expect some discomfort or sensitivity. This is a big change for your mouth, but acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. You can also make accommodations to your menu to by eating softer foods like bananas, soup, pasta, yogurt, and applesauce. If pain lasts more than a few days, reach out to us for additional treatment.

#8 – Dental Wax Is Your Friend

Braces can take some getting used to, espeicially when it comes to the sensitive tissue inside your mouth. Use dental wax to prevent irritation to your cheeks, lips, and gums.

#9 – Mouthguards

If you’re an athlete – even a bicyclist – and you have braces, consider a mouthguard to prevent soft tissue injuries and complications to your treatment while enjoying the active lifestyle you love.

#10 – Retainers

To keep your teeth in place after your treatment is finished, you’ll most likely need an acrylic retainer, or even a fixed metal retainer that will be permanently placed on the inside of your teeth, so no one will notice but you.

Now that you know the most important details about braces, schedule your appointment with Murphy Family Dentistry to get the straight teeth you deserve!