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Braces

Life with braces is essentially the same as life without braces - with the exception of eating certain foods! Braces today are a lot more comfortable than they used to be, however, it is normal to have some soreness for a few days after each adjustment appointment.  It's ok to take a pain reliever if needed - whatever you would normally take for a headache will work to reduce the tenderness.

Mount Lebanon Orthodontist, Braces, Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, South Hills Orthodontist, Pittsburgh, braces

 

FOODS TO AVOID

To avoid breaking braces and extending total treatment time, steer clear of the following types of food:

 

  • Sticky (Gummies, Fruit Snacks)

  • Hard (Hard candy, Pretzels, Nuts)

  • Chewy (Bagels, Pizza Crust)

  • Crunchy (Popcorn, Chips)

  • Biting into food (Corn on the cob, Apples, Raw Carrots) - It's ok to eat these foods if you cut them up first. 

 

BRUSHING AND FLOSSING

Good oral hygiene is important to Dr. Babb.  Cleaning around the braces is key to ensuring a beautiful smile when the braces are removed!

 

  • Brush for at least 2 minutes 2 times per day using a soft bristled toothbrush.

  • If possible, brush after meals to remove any food that might become stuck in the braces.  If it isn't possible to brush, rinse with water to help clean off excess food.

  • Floss once per day to clean between the teeth.  We will provide special floss threaders to help you get the floss under the braces.  Brushing alone is not enough to get the teeth thoroughly clean!

  • Supplement brushing and flossing with a flouride mouth rinse.  Flouride is like a vitamin for the teeth that protects them from cavities.

  • Don't skip your dental appointments!  Continue to see your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams. 

 

Click here to set up an appointment.

 

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