One of the procedures performed to correct dental problems is by installing braces. Braces can help with crow's feet, cavities, and uneven tooth alignment.
Several types of braces are commonly used, such as metal braces made of stainless steel, ceramic braces, and Invisalign (transparent braces that are easily replaceable and more aesthetically pleasing). Each of these braces has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the best one will depend on preference and advice from the doctor.
No matter what type of braces you choose, most of the treatment remains the same. Take note of the do's and don'ts after undergoing a braces procedure.
What to Do After Braces
Brush your teeth twice a day
After getting braces, you still need to maintain dental hygiene by brushing your teeth diligently to prevent plaque formation and tooth decay. Make sure to use a suitable toothbrush and follow the correct brushing technique.
Brushing on teeth with wires is not too different. Brushing should take at least two minutes and twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. A toothbrush with rounded bristles is effective to help clean teeth with braces. Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 months or when the bristles look damaged.
Cleaning between the teeth
After getting braces, you may need to make more of an effort to clean between your teeth or floss. This should be done once a day. You can floss under the braces, then gently slide the floss up and down so as not to damage the wire or brackets.
Also read: Benefits And Side Effects Of Using Gigi Wire (Behel)
Rinsing your mouth/gargle
After cleaning between teeth, rinse your mouth with water using mouthwash that your dentist has recommended. Weaving can help eliminate small particles and kill bacteria in hard-to-reach areas.
Visit the dentist regularly
Following the placement of braces, the dentist will arrange follow-up appointments to check the teeth's progress and identify potential issues. These visits will include a thorough teeth cleaning.
Follow the dentist's instructions or directions
Always follow the recommended instructions for using orthodontic appliances, including which ones to remove and which ones to wear. For example, wear the aligners all the time, except when eating or drinking, clean them regularly, clean the rubber bands on the braces as taught by the doctor, and so on.
If your braces are broken, you should see your dentist immediately for help.
Read more: How Old Can Children Start Using Gigi Wire?
What Not to Do After Braces
After getting braces, there are a few things you should not do, and these include:
- Avoid eating sweet, sticky, crunchy, or hard foods.
- Avoid drinking sugary or carbonated beverages
- Avoid self-repairing broken or damaged braces
Be sure to return to the dentist immediately if you feel aches or pains that do not improve with treatment, broken or damaged braces, mouth sores from the wire, bleeding, or signs of infection in the gums. You can also use the healthcare consultation service related to the use of braces by downloading the Ai Care application via the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr Hanifa Rahma