Now that you are wearing braces and getting closer to showing off your beautiful new smile, you might want to think about some ways to give special attention to your appliances. We know that taking care of braces can add to a hectic lifestyle, so your Kemp Orthodontics team has created these quick tips that will make caring for your orthodontic braces a breeze while you’re in school.
1. WATCH WHAT YOU EAT
Of course, we think everyone should eat healthfully and maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, people who wear braces know it is important to choose foods that protect their orthodontic appliances. Crunchy and sticky foods may break a bracket or cause a wire to slip out of a bracket. If you choose crunchy foods like apples and carrots, be sure to cut them into tiny bites so you can protect your braces. Better still is to choose soft foods. The list of soft foods is so long – sandwiches, soups, casseroles, veggies, salads, and on. You’ll totally forget about those crunchy and sticky foods!
2. WEAR A MOUTH GUARD
Many people who play sports benefit from wearing a mouth guard while playing games and exercising. Mouth guards serve to protect their wearers from flying pucks and balls, swinging elbows, and accidental hits and falls. For people who wear braces on their teeth, wearing a mouth guard is an absolute necessity. We at Kemp Orthodontics suggest that every time our patients participate in physical activities and games (including gym classes) they wear a mouth guard. And you never know which of your favorite athletes just may be in the chair next to you at Kemp Orthodontics getting his or her own new mouth guard!
3. BRUSH AND FLOSS REGULARLY
Braces sometimes trap food while you are eating. It is very important to brush your teeth after every meal, even that yummy school lunch, and to floss at least once a day. After all, no one wants to have broccoli stuck in his or her front teeth!
4. DON'T CHEW ON PENCILS
Just don’t do it. Yuk!
August is an exciting time of year – a time for new beginnings, like starting your journey to your most beautiful smile. Come on over to Kemp Orthodontics and let us share with you a glimpse of the smile that waits to be revealed in you. Call 615.790.7027 for your free new patient evaluation.
