6 Things to Do Prior to Getting Braces

by | Aug 22, 2022 | Dental Braces

After braces, your teeth will never be the same as they were before (as long as you wear your retainer). Your smile will never be the same! Although this is quite intriguing, there are still some unanswered questions.

How can you get ready for this procedure that will change your life?

If you’re wondering what to do before getting braces, we’ve got you covered.

There are advantages to both traditional braces and alternative orthodontic products.

Some things to think about when preparing for braces to make the process go more smoothly.

Here are some actions you must first take.

#1. Have a dentist appointment for a check-up and cleaning

People might want to have a few important items checked during a dental cleaning before obtaining braces. The first is ensuring you have healthy gums and adequate bone support. Any dental decay or gum disease present before orthodontic treatment can worsen.

Your dentist urges you to check your teeth before getting braces. The medical professional wants to confirm that you are free of decay, which is the second crucial factor. The next thing he wants to check is the dental work for errors.

Without a dental cleaning before getting braces, plaque may accumulate in the spaces between your teeth. Cavities are primarily brought on by plaque and calculus. Plaque is the white, gooey substance that builds up on the surface of teeth. Regular tooth brushing can effectively prevent and remove plaque from the mouth.

An immunological response to bacterial invasion results in gingivitis, an inflammation. This gum irritation can lead to more complicated periodontal issues if left untreated. All plaque will be eliminated during the dental cleaning before bracket placement.

#2. Consider having cavities filled and other dental work done first

Without having your cavities filled first, braces can still be worn. However, it is typically best to have any current cavities repaired by your dentist first. It is usual to be encouraged to get any essential dental work done before receiving braces.

#3. Start removing troublesome foods from your diet

Keep your investment safe by eating the right things while you have braces on. Certain foods must be consumed in a specific way to protect your braces and keep your teeth healthy.

While wearing braces, you should refrain from eating foods like:

  • Foods that are tough to chew, such as apples or bagels
  • Chewy foods like caramel or toffee
  • Corn flakes
  • Carrots, nuts, popcorn, and hard crackers

#4. Clean your teeth thoroughly before your appointment

Before visiting the orthodontist, thoroughly brush your teeth. Pay close attention to the crevices and nooks—floss between teeth and brush to ensure that all surfaces and gums are debris-free.

#5. Stock up on a variety of pain relievers and soft meals

In the days and months following treatment, your best friends are foods requiring little to no chewing. Before your braces are finished, you might want to fill your cupboard with soft foods. What soft food you stock up on depends on your preferences. Purees, soups, and yoghurt are a few examples.

You may feel pain after the installation as the braces apply pressure on your teeth to begin straightening them. However, a painkiller can be helpful when particularly unpleasant flare-ups occur. Along with this, you might also want to stock up on painkillers.

#6. Take a before selfie

When we’re embarrassed by our teeth, we usually smile with our mouths closed, but not before we take a picture that shows them. You’ll love comparing your current smile to your teeth before treatment and observing how much your smile has changed.

Smile at Albury

We at Kreativ Dental Albury want you to be ready for the exciting first day you have braces on! Apply this using a checklist as a guide, and call us at (02) 6021 4171 if you have any more questions!

Kreativ Dental is a patient-friendly dental practice delivering high-quality dental care to patients of all ages in Albury and the surrounding areas.

Book your appointment online today!

Visit us at 525 Wilson St in Albury.