Braces can help you conquer a number of dental conditions, with often dramatic results. But making the most out of this investment of time, money, and in your smile, requires a bit of help from you. You can expect a few necessary dietary changes and your overall dental hygiene, but you'll be happy with the outcome. To learn more contact your local Upper East Side orthodontists of Upper East Smiles in New York, NY.
Benefits of Braces
Braces can correct crooked and crowded teeth, as well as all the common bite problems many of us experience, such as overbite, underbite, open bite, among others. These are more than just aesthetic concerns, though they might seem so at first glance. When teeth are too close together, cleaning them can be a real challenge, which can lead to plaque buildup and eventually, decay, and all the problems associated with it.
An incorrect bite can completely alter your smile, often causing issues like wear as the teeth make contact, which slowly erodes the enamel and invites bacteria, and increases the possibility of injury. This is all to not understate the importance of braces and to make sure you are doing everything you can to make them worth your while.
Your Diet on Braces
Some like to exaggerate how much braces will impact your diet, and while certain changes are necessary, they are nothing extreme, and as you will see, they are common sense. It's on the first few days that you can expect a stricter diet. During this time you will be adjusting to the new pressure on your teeth, which can take a few weeks, but keep your dentist informed in case it lasts longer.
Stick to easy to chew foods, nothing that crunches when you bite. Foods like eggs, soups, pasta, and similar alternatives. As you feel more comfortable, you can begin to expand your diet, but you will still want to avoid anything very difficult to chew, like hard candy, bagels and similar breads, and popcorn, among others. The key here is to avoid food that can possibly damage the wires and bands. Also, avoid food that can get easily stuck in between your teeth and can be difficult to remove. On this note, sugary foods and drinks are what the bacteria on our teeth love to consume. Bacteria that produce acids that can damage our gums and teeth.
Braces in New York, NY
The most important thing to remember with the food you choose to eat while wearing braces is that it should not invite decay and work against all the benefits your braces are providing you. If you believe you may need braces, or a similar alternative, like Invisalign, make an appointment today with the professionals of Upper East Smiles in New York, NY, by dialing (646) 864-1808.