Traditional braces attach to your teeth with brackets and wires. They represent a serious investment in improving the alignment of your teeth for a lifetime. Your braces can be damaged by certain activities, foods and lifestyle choices. When this happens it can increase the total amount of time you need to wear them.
Let us know in advance if you plan to take part in any contact sports. Your mouth and your braces can be damaged by blows to the head and face. Retail level mouth guards don’t do a very good job of protecting your braces. We can fit you for a custom mouth guard that will be designed to protect your mouth while still offering comfort and breathability.
Chewing gum and the foods you eat can also damage your braces. Sticky foods and gum can get stuck in the wires and bands causing damage or even breaking something loose. You should also try to avoid eating crunchy foods, hard candy and chewing on things like pens, pencils and ice.
Be sure to brush and floss at least twice a day. A water jet or interdental brushes can also help you clean food particles and plaque from some of the hard to reach places.
If you have questions or you are due for your next adjustment, please feel free to call us at 512-716-0307 to schedule your next appointment or schedule online.