Lifestyle Adjustments During Braces

Have you been considering taking the leap to treat yourself to the smile you’ve always dreamed of? Now is the time! The Morita Orthodontics team in Honolulu and Aiea is ready and waiting for anyone ready to explore their orthodontic options. A variety of orthodontic treatment options are available, each one with its own set of benefits. Dr. Scott Morita will make the process as simple as possible, discussing your goals, specific problem areas, and options so you can make as informed a decision as possible on how to move forward. While Morita Orthodontics will bring the knowledge and expertise to lead your orthodontic journey, there are certain things to take into consideration when it comes to your role.

Get The Most Out Of Your Braces With These Lifestyle Changes

Starting orthodontic treatment is an exciting time! You have decided to take control of your image and your oral health by seeking out the best specialist to guide you. But making that decision isn’t the only part you have to play—your commitment to proper care for the braces plays a vital role in the success of treatment. To get the most out of your braces, you will need to make a series of lifestyle changes that will make the experience more comfortable and more effective.

• Proper Care:  Oral hygiene is always imperative, but extra care must be given when wearing braces. The hardware associated with braces creates more space for food to become trapped, leading to decay. Brushing and flossing after every meal with braces is key to maintaining proper oral care. Special orthodontic soft picks can be a huge help in providing a better clean in between brackets and wires. If you’re unable to brush at the moment, at least swish and rinse with water after eating. If your treatment involves Invisalign, you will need to brush before placing them back in your mouth.
• Eating Habits:  Having braces will require at least a temporary change in certain eating habits. The items you should avoid are typically not great for teeth with or without braces but can wreak havoc on hardware. Steer clear of foods that are overly sticky, chewy, crunchy, or hard. It’s not wise to bite straight into foods such as corn on the cob or apples, as that can cause damage to your braces. Instead, find alternative ways to eat your favorite foods such as cutting them into smaller pieces. Just remember, these are temporary changes that lead to a permanent and positive life change.
• Drinking Habits:  As with certain foods, changes must be made surrounding what you drink as well. Dark-colored drinks such as tea or soda should be avoided so as to not create stains around your brackets that will become obvious once the braces have been removed. Additionally, high-sugar drinks can increase the bacteria within the mouth, causing decay potential. If you have opted for a removable, clear aligner, you will need to remove it anytime you drink something other than water. Aligners should be worn most of the day and night, so the more you remove them to enjoy a drink, the longer your treatment may last.
• Frequent Visits:  While not necessarily a huge lifestyle change, it will be important to plan for frequent visits to your orthodontist’s office. Our staff will monitor progress, adjusting as needed. Schedule orthodontic check-ups in advance to work around work or school schedules accordingly.

Morita Orthodontics Provides Braces to The Honolulu Area

The team at Morita Orthodontics is passionate about giving our patients high-quality and informed care. We will be right by your side from your initial consultation through the day we unveil your brand new smile, and beyond. We will provide you with the information needed to determine the best braces treatment for you, and how to adjust your life to accommodate the new hardware, and we’ll be just a phone call or visit away to answer any of your questions or concerns. Contact us at 808.941.3355 or get started today with a free new patient consultation!