Essential Braces Tips for Beginners by Dr. Aaron Crossley at Crossley Orthodontics

Braces consist of several components, including brackets, archwires, and elastics or bands. These elements work together to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions, correcting misalignments and bite issues over time. While braces may seem complex, we’ve compiled some of our best tips for ensuring your braces treatment is smooth and successful!

Proper oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health of your teeth and gums during orthodontic treatment. Brushing and flossing regularly, especially around brackets and wires, helps prevent plaque buildup and reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Crossley recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between braces effectively.

While wearing braces, it's important to be mindful of your dietary choices to avoid damaging them. Stick to soft, braces-friendly foods that are gentle on your teeth and braces, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Stay away from hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can potentially break brackets or bend wires, prolonging your treatment time.

It's normal to experience some discomfort or soreness, especially in the days following braces adjustment appointments. Dr. Crossley recommends using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate any discomfort. Additionally, rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater or using orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges can provide temporary relief from irritation. 

If your treatment plan includes elastics or rubber bands, it's essential to wear them as instructed by Dr. Crossley. These elastics play a crucial role in correcting bite alignment and ensuring the success of your orthodontic treatment. Consistently wearing elastics as instructed helps maintain the progress of your treatment.

Regular check-up appointments allow Dr. Crossley to assess your treatment progress, address any concerns or issues, and ensure that your braces are effectively moving your teeth into their desired positions.

If you are active in physical activities or sports it is important that you don't forget to wear a mouthguard to protect your braces from potential damage or injury. Mouthguards help cushion your braces and minimize the risk of brackets breaking or wires bending during impact. Dr. Crossley can talk with you about your options for custom-made mouthguards for optimal protection and comfort.  

 With the expert care and personalized attention of Dr. Aaron Crossley and the team at Crossley Orthodontics, you're on your way to achieving the smile of your dreams. Follow these tips for a successful treatment and give us a call if you have any questions or want to learn more!

If you’re looking for a board certified orthodontist in Flower Mound, TX, or Frisco, TX, contact our office today! Dr. Crossley is conveniently located at: 12828 Eldorado Pkwy.  Suite 100 Frisco, TX 75035  • (214) 556-6868  and 651 Cross Timbers Rd. Suite 100 Flower Mound, TX 75028  • (972) 221-2515