Orthodontists don’t expect gifts. Their job is to give you or your children an amazing, healthy, aligned smile. However, there are a few choices that can make your orthodontist very happy during your journey and afterward. In every case, it’s possible to show thanks without even speaking the words.
Floss Without Fail
Flossing when you wear braces is annoying. It is a serious pest of a task, and your orthodontist knows it and knows you know it. Use the tool that serves you best, whether you have conventional metal braces or Invisalign. A water pik makes it easy to target between every tooth, forcefully moving plaque and food out of the way. Orthodontic flossers can be difficult to get in and out of teeth, but if you are diligent and practice, this daily task will become easier.
Brush and Brush Some More
Clean teeth are healthy teeth, and teeth with braces are especially demanding of cleanliness. Every kind of foodstuff is going to get stuck in brackets and wires, so brush as many times a day as possible (two times at a minimum). You might even have to push your lips out of the way to get under hardware and ensure gums don’t become inflamed.
Invisalign Teen and general Invisalign wearers must brush religiously too. Wearing clear aligners doesn’t mean you’re safe from tooth decay or food getting stuck. The last thing you want is anything to come between your trays and tooth enamel. Rinse your teeth. Brush your teeth. Then brush some more.
Stay Away from Dangerous Foods
Everyone with braces knows the foods they’re not supposed to eat, knows the behavior they’re supposed to avoid, but sometimes it’s hard to say no to tempting things. If you can keep your distance from the chewy, crunchy, sticky foods that threaten every bit of orthodontic hardware on your teeth, you will keep treatment on track.
Any time an elastic is lost or a bracket broken, the time in braces is prolonged. It’s in your best interest to just say no to dangerous foods.
Wear Your Retainer
One of the biggest ways to give thanks to your orthodontist is by wearing your retainer after treatment is complete (it’s never too early for new patients to think about this). Together, you and your orthodontist took a journey that changed the shape of your teeth and smile and delivered a healthy grin that feels good and works properly. Now, it’s your job to keep the work from being a waste.
Wear your retainer as instructed and do not veer from this guide. Your teeth are freshly relocated and need daily support to stay in place.
Visit the Orthodontist
Your Lawrenceville Orthodontist wants you to be satisfied with the smile you created together. Say thanks by following these suggestions. Never be afraid to ask questions, get support, and learn the best ways to be an orthodontic patient. Schedule an appointment at our office for a consultation for yourself or your child.