The traditional braces installed in your mouth at James V. Karhohs, DDS, MS, PC represent a significant investment in realigning your teeth. Problems with tooth decay, periodontal inflammation and other oral health problems could complicate the realignment process as well as increase the time and number of necessary adjustments to correct your teeth.
Brushing your teeth each morning and night with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste is essentially for removing bacterial deposits from your teeth and braces. You should also remember to thoroughly floss between each of your teeth and along the gumline at least once each day.
It’s important to take steps to prevent your braces from becoming damaged. Anytime a component is bent, loosened, or damaged, it could significantly increase the amount of time it takes to fully correct the alignment of your teeth.
You should try to avoid eating sticky foods, chewing gum, and things like taffy. Very hard and tough foods should also be avoided. These things can potentially loosen a bracket or bend a wire, which could complicate or prolong the realignment process.
If you are in the Grand Rapids, Michigan, area and you are having a problem with your traditional braces, you should call 616-784-4300 to have the problem addressed by an experienced orthodontist like Dr. James Karhohs.
