The average person will seek orthodontic treatment at one point or another. Whether it be braces, aligners, or another method, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind as you undergo treatment. When it comes to how-to tips for teeth straightening, look no further than these five.
1. Consult an orthodontist
When you desire straighter, healthier teeth, one of the first priorities should be to consult with a professional. With a professional, you can work through your options and find the best one for you. Because everyone’s teeth and necessary corrective measures look different, there is no one size fits all approach to straightening your teeth. Plus, discussing your options and learning how each works will help to empower you on your journey toward straighter teeth.
2. Watch what you eat and drink
If you’re using devices like braces to straighten your teeth, you’ll need to be careful about what you’re eating and drinking. Generally, you’ll need to avoid sticky foods like taffy or even gum as these can cause your braces to weaken and for brackets to come off. Similarly, crunchy foods may even break a bracket or, worse, a tooth! A broken tooth is the last thing you need when working with braces, as it can completely alter your treatment plan.
Veneers cost normally between a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per tooth, with costs varying based on the type of veneers, materials utilized, and the location of the dental clinic.
3. Improve your oral health
Improving or maintaining your oral health should always be a priority for you. It’s the only way to ensure that your teeth remain healthy. If you let your dental health slip, you may find that your orthodontic journey is not complete once braces are removed, or a retainer is prescribed. You may require corrective surgery and cleanings or implants to finish off your dental journey. Avoid this at all costs and minimize your treatment time by keeping your oral health paramount.
4. Follow directions
There is no sense in trying to straighten your teeth if you’re not committed to following the directions set forth by your orthodontist. This means attending pre-determined appointment times, wearing rubber bands, or continuing to follow any other directions. Not following guidelines can lead to a prolonged treatment plan, additional treatment after your current concludes, or other issues, including a deterioration in your oral health.
5. Find comfort
It’s no secret that orthodontic treatment can get pretty uncomfortable. With adjustments and tunings over the months or years, you can expect frequent bouts of discomfort. Luckily, there are more options for encouraging comfort than there ever were before. From wax to help shield your cheeks from metal wires to over-the-counter pain relief to help you get through the days following an adjustment, it is possible to find comfort while straightening your teeth.
The bottom line
Straightening your teeth is a significant undertaking, and what treatment looks like for you may be different than for someone else. In order to ensure a smooth process, be sure to follow your presiding orthodontist’s recommendations and work on finding solutions that keep you comfortable and healthy during the process.
