Tips and Tricks
Over the years many of our patients and staff have revealed some of their awesome tips and tricks that have made their lives easier during orthodontic treatment. By tweaking little things, it can make your treatment more comfortable and more straightforward in the long run!
Wax
When placing the wax over the bracket, ensure you dry the area thoroughly with a tissue to help the wax stick.
Ulcers
If you develop an ulcer, this can be treated with warm salt water mouth rinses or Bonjela.
Plaque Disclosing Tablets
Use plaque disclosing tablets a few weeks after your braces go on to check how your brushing is going and whether there are areas that you may be missing or need to focus on.
Electric Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes offer superior cleaning and up to twice more plaque removal than manual toothbrushes. So, angle the electric toothbrush to ensure contact with the gum margins and brackets and let the oscillating head do the work.
Oral Hygiene
The cleaner your teeth the quicker they’ll move!
Rough Aligners
If the edge of your Invisalign aligner is rough and irritating the gum line, you can gently file your aligner with an emery board (nail file) until it is comfortable to wear. Just remember that the aligners have creases, bumps and ridges that have all been placed there as a result of your digital treatment plan, so don’t file these away!
Be Prepared
Keep a small bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss/interdental brushes, wax, lip balm, and elastics (if applicable) with you in your handbag/schoolbag/work bag. That way you’ll always be prepared.
If you do get caught with something stuck in your braces and you don’t have a toothbrush, rinsing your mouth vigorously with water can sometimes help to dislodge whatever is stuck.
Retainers
Brush your orthodontic retainers with a soft toothbrush and mild soap and water every time you remove them, this will help to prevent them from smelling. If you do find they start to smell or there is buildup on your retainers, soak them in a 50:50 solution of white vinegar and lukewarm water, then give them a good rinse and a brush with mild soap and water.
Smile!
While you may be conscious of your orthodontic appliances, most people won’t notice them. It’s often more noticeable if you try to hide your smile, rather than just smiling with your appliances.
Have another awesome orthodontic tip? We’d love to hear it!
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