Straight teeth can serve as an asset throughout your life. A straight and healthy smile is often perceived as more attractive, and positive first impressions can help you build your social and professional networks. If you have crooked teeth, you should consider getting braces.

Although braces often are thought of as painful, there are some simple things that you can do to build a better relationship between you and your braces to make the experience of straightening your teeth a more positive one.

Take the time to floss properly

Good oral hygiene is a must when wearing braces. It can be challenging to floss around each of the brackets and wires of your braces, but taking the time to floss thoroughly is essential to your long-term comfort.

Food particles that get stuck in your braces can lead to the development of serious dental conditions like cavities or gum disease. These food particles can also irritate your gums, causing you to experience pain and inflammation that will be uncomfortable to bear.

Regular and thorough flossing will ensure that your braces don't cause you serious discomfort while they are straightening your teeth.

Chew your food properly

Many patients who invest in braces are surprised to discover that there is a proper way to chew food. Your dentist will advise you to chew with your back teeth while wearing braces. This is to avoid any discomfort that you might feel should sharp foods (like potato chips or vegetables) become lodged in your braces.

Chewing with your back teeth can also be a great way to prevent your braces from shifting or breaking as they work to correct the alignment of your teeth.

Wear all accessory gear as advised

When a patient is fitted with braces, the orthodontist may also provide additional gear that is designed to help the braces do their job. This gear typically includes rubber bands that can be fitted onto the brackets of the braces and headgear that can be worn at night.

If you fail to use these accessories as advised, you could prolong the amount of time that you are required to wear braces. Following your orthodontist's advice as closely as possible will ensure that your braces perform properly and correct your smile in as little time as possible.

Don't let the thought of painful braces scare you away from improving your smile. You can build a better relationship between you and your braces by simply flossing daily, chewing properly, and using accessory gear as advised. For more information, contact your local orthodontist services.

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