Patients receive well-planned and carefully executed orthodontic care from Dr. Daniel J. Passidomo, a dentist in Centerville. He and his team want their patients fully informed on the process of getting and maintaining braces so their treatment progresses on time and is easier to live with. After all, the goal of getting braces is more than an attractive smile; your dentist in Centerville wants your oral health and your overall well-being to thrive.
If You or Your Child Need Braces…
If orthodontic care is imminent for you or a loved one, don’t worry. Braces are a great dental service because they create beautiful aesthetics for crooked, gapped smiles. Also, they eliminate bite issues such as overbite, ensure proper jaw alignment and improve oral health and systemic health. That’s why the American Association of Orthodontists advises children get an orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven so problems are treated as early as possible.
In the long run, orthodontic treatment leads to better oral health because:
- Straight teeth are easier to clean and less prone to cavities
- Straighter smiles have less gum disease
- Patients with well-aligned teeth have fewer headaches and less neck pain
- Chewing and biting is easier and more efficient
- Speech is clearer
- Airways are unobstructed
In other words, braces are worth the time, effort and cost–even for adults. In fact, the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine says that up to 50 percent of orthodontic patients are adults. However, typical treatment with traditional braces starts between ages 10 and 14 and lasts an average of two to two and a half years.
Your Orthodontist in Centerville Says After Care is Important
A patient’s mouth takes about a month to adjust to new braces. At first, speech may be a bit slurred, and the teeth will feel sore. Analgesics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen help with the discomfort as does a soft diet comprised of:
- Soups
- Yogurt
- Foods cut into small pieces
- Applesauce
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Macaroni and cheese
As you continue wearing metal braces, avoid extra hard foods such as nuts, ice, and celery. Drink several glasses of water daily to rinse away food residues.
Treat any sore spots on the cheeks, tongue or gums with a numbing gel such as Orajel. Orthodontic wax covers any rough areas.
Practice thorough oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily, taking extra care around brackets. Use orthodontic floss, floss threaders, and interdental brushes to clean very tight spaces. Be prompt with oral hygiene after meals, and of course, get your six-month cleanings and check-ups with Dr. Passidomo.
Learn More about Braces
To really understand the process of getting braces, contact Daniel J. Passidomo DMD to set up a consultation. The doctor and his team will answer all your questions about orthodontic treatment and if it’s right for your smile.