Life Hacks for Braces

by | Apr 15, 2021 | Orthodontics

Getting braces is a big life change for anyone! It also has an impact on oral hygiene and dental care for awhile. So what can you expect? How can you make the most of your time with braces? No worries! Here are 7 life hacks for braces you may find handy!

1. Drink Less Soda and Coffee

You want your beautiful smile to be, well, beautiful! Coffee, soda, etc not only stain your teeth but can impact tooth decay as well. Drink water, or milk, and protect those pearly whites while that smile makeover is in progress!

2. Have the Tylenol or Ibuprofen Handy

It’s true that there may be some discomfort after tightening, one of the more important life hacks for braces is: have some tylenol or ibuprofen available before and after a tightening, just to ease up the discomfort a little.

3. Keep Your Accessories Organized

Those little rubber bands used for tension can be difficult to keep handy and yet not get lost. Using a small container to keep them organized in your pocket or purse, or tape it at the head of your bed, or inside your medicine cabinet, so they’re handy when you need them.

4. Lean In and Enjoy the Aesthetic

Braces are incredibly cool, and a fun thing to accessorize. Don’t be afraid to go for fun rubber band colors. One of the more important life hacks for braces, avoid colors like white, as they can be in stark contrast to your more ivory tooth color, making them appear more yellow.

5. Stock Up on Comfort Foods

Sometimes with braces life can be a little uncomfortable. Keep sugar free chocolate pudding on hand, or oatmeal, mac n cheese, mashed potatoes, jello, fruit popsicles etc, for when you just need something soft for tender teeth, or comforting.

6. Do Get Flavored Wax

Flavored wax may be one of the lesser known life hacks for braces. Ask your orthodontist about the flavors for the wax used to protect cheeks and soft mouth tissue from brackets and wires. There are many flavors and they can make the wax more fun and enjoyable to use!

7. Ask Your Orthodontist About Cleaning Tools

Check with your orthodontist, and ask about the best tools you can use to keep those teeth bright and clean during your time with braces. They may even have helpful advice about avoiding tooth decay while enjoying the journey to a more brilliant smile!

Call our Pearl Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.

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