Having braces is a bit like learning a new language—there’s a lot of new territory to cover! But think of it this way: For every person you’ve seen with braces, they’ve had to experience this same learning curve. Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is here to make sure you’re fully equipped with the knowledge you need to care for your braces.
Why Maintenance Matters
When you or your child have braces, a huge transformation is taking place. Braces go far beyond straightening teeth—they improve your overall oral health and allow you to maintain top-tier dental hygiene in the long run. Taking good care of your braces guarantees:
- Faster and more efficient treatment progress
- Reduced risk of cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup
- Prevention of unnecessary repairs and treatment delays
Myths About Braces Care
In many cases, patients may enter treatment with some misconceptions about how to take care of their braces—so let us set the record straight!
Myth #1: You Don’t Need to Floss Often with Braces
Fact: This is the exact opposite of the truth! Flossing is more important than ever when you have braces. Food and plaque cleverly hide between your brackets and wires, which can lead to cavities and gum irritation if not cleaned properly.
Myth #2: You Can Eat Anything with Braces
Fact: Metal braces are pretty tough, but they’re not invincible. To keep everything running smooth, stick to braces-friendly foods like soft fruits, yogurt, pasta, and smoothies. Sticky and hard foods are always bad news with braces.
Myth #3: Brushing Once a Day is Enough
Fact: With braces, brushing just once a day isn’t going to cut it. Ideally, you should brush after every meal. If brushing after every meal is not possible, at the very least, rinse your mouth carefully with water or mouthwash to help remove food particles.
Myth #4: Orthodontic Wax is Only for Emergencies
Fact: Orthodontic wax is an incredibly dynamic tool for your braces. If a bracket or wire is rubbing against your cheek or gums, a little wax can create a smooth barrier and prevent irritation. Even if nothing is broken, wax can help ease discomfort, especially when you’re first adjusting to your braces or after an adjustment appointment with Dr. Barysenka.
Myth #5: If a Bracket Breaks, You Can Wait Until Your Next Appointment
Fact: If any component of your braces breaks or is clearly damaged, you need to address it promptly. Acting quickly and scheduling a repair appointment can help keep your treatment on schedule. As a general rule, never try to go in blind and repair things on your own!
Tackling Common Issues
Every person’s treatment process at Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry will look a little different, of course. But there are some relatively universal experiences to be aware of when you have your braces, and it can be helpful to know how to handle them ahead of time.
- Irritation or Sores in Your Mouth: You may need time to adjust to your braces, and sometimes, brackets or wires can cause irritation to the softer tissues in your mouth. Applying orthodontic wax over any rough spots is always smart, as well as rinsing with warm salt water to soothe sore areas.
- Soreness After an Adjustment: It’s normal to feel some discomfort after a braces adjustment when we tighten wires or make other minor changes. Eating soft foods, drinking cold water, and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever (if needed) can help. The soreness should fade away in a day or two!
- Food Stuck in Braces: If food gets stuck in your braces, gently use an interdental brush, floss threader, or water flosser to remove it. Avoid using pointy objects like toothpicks, as they can damage your braces or gums.
- Lost or Broken Rubber Band: If one of your rubber bands breaks or goes missing, replace it with a new one as soon as possible. If you’re unsure about how to do it or run out of bands, reach out to us for guidance!
Why Choose Our Office?
- All-in-One Care for Your Family: From your child’s first dental visit with Dr. Sarah to braces with Dr. Barysenka and beyond, we provide seamless care under one roof for our beloved community.
- Personalized & Comfortable Care: We aim to be your friendly neighborhood dental and orthodontic team, ensuring you feel at home from your first visit to your final retainer check years later. Your comfort and confidence matter to us!
- A Fun & Engaging Experience: We make every visit enjoyable with patient rewards, contests, and special events like Movie Night and our Annual Pool Party—because orthodontic care should be exciting!
Bolder and Brighter
If you’ve been on the lookout for a new orthodontic or pediatric dental practice in the Sycamore area, you’ve found it! Please contact our team for more information on how to get started!