How to Properly Prepare Yourself For Braces

Getting braces can be the start of significant changes in your smile. But it can also mean substantial changes in your lifestyle. Before receiving braces in St.Albert, many patients wonder what they can do to prepare for these changes correctly. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before visiting a dental clinic near you. 

Know What to Expect

For most, the most significant change when receiving braces is mental. To keep your nervousness to a minimum, many patients have found it helpful to learn more about what to expect when receiving treatment. While your dentist can give you an overview, you might also decide to read about the experiences others have had with braces from their point of view. With this information, you will feel prepared, knowing exactly what to expect at your next appointment.

Book a Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings should be conducted at least every six months. When receiving braces treatment, your dentist might decide to book more frequent appointments to assist in plaque removal. At each appointment, a dental hygienist will assess your mouth to determine the health of your teeth and gums. They will carefully remove any plaque or build up they notice through a process called scaling. Afterwards, they will polish your teeth, improving the white appearance of teeth and giving them a smooth finish. 

It also will be worthwhile to get a dental checkup at your next visit to a dentist in St.Albert. A checkup can be done on the same day as your cleaning. Filling cavities is significantly easier without removing any brackets or wires that stand in the way. Additionally, putting off the filling of cavities can result in more severe complications once your braces are off. A professional at a dental clinic near you can advise you of the best treatment schedule.

Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Before receiving your braces, it is vital that you establish a regular oral health care routine. This is because if you cannot keep your teeth clean without braces, keeping your teeth clean with braces will seem nearly impossible. Therefore, you must continue to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. Getting into this habit will ensure that you reduce the amount of plaque build-up on your teeth and get you in the habit of maintaining proper care of your teeth throughout your treatment. 

The dental hygienists at Erin Ridge Dental can also provide you tailored advice on brushing and flossing for your teeth, such as the use of a Waterpik. 

Enjoy All The Food You Won’t Be Able to Eat During Your

Treatment

When braces are in place, there are a couple of dietary restrictions you will need to temporarily implement to avoid accidentally breaking a bracket or bending a wire. In the weeks leading up to your appointment, you might decide to enjoy your fair share of popcorn, crunchy foods, corn on the cob, toffee and other sticky or hard candies. By doing so, you will reduce the temptation to bend the rules once your braces are in place.

Pick Up Some Precautionary Items

Your dental care provider will inform you of some items you may need to add to your care kit, including special floss, wax for your braces or even pain-relieving gels, in case you experience some soreness. Rather than put yourself in a panic, stocking up with these items ahead of time can help to ensure you are equipped for every possible scenario.

Looking for Braces Near You?

To learn more about available tooth straightening treatments like braces, we encourage you to contact our team at Erin Ridge Dental. Together, we can help you prepare for treatments such as receiving braces in St.Albert. Consultations can be booked using our form online or by calling (780) 569-5151.

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