Many people are concerned about the length of orthodontic treatment, and want to learn how to quicken their treatment. It is true that orthodontic treatment is often a long, time consuming process. Whether you are a child, teen, or adult, treating a mild or severe case, orthodontic care takes some time to get it just right. Every patient’s treatment length will vary, and most patients are eager to complete their treatment and begin living life with a beautiful smile. Luckily, Dr. Michael Payne of American River Orthodontics says there are some steps you can take to keep your orthodontic treatment running on schedule and get even faster results. And you’ll be on track to get your braces off near Placer County fast!
First, it is extremely important to maintain good oral health. After all, straightening teeth is only one part of the battle – keeping teeth from decaying or developing plaque is extremely important and key to protecting your oral health. Having braces near Placer County makes brushing and flossing a bit more difficult, but very necessary to keeping your treatment on track. Dr. Michael Payne recommends brushing your teeth after every meal. Additionally, it is very important to floss as often as you can, using regular floss or super floss, to make sure that all food remnants are gone from on and around your teeth. The team at American River Orthodontics suggests packing a braces-hygiene kit and bringing it with you every time you go out. Your kit should have a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. This way, you will never have to worry about your oral health slowing down your orthodontic treatment process.
Secondly, be sure to always listen to your orthodontist. There are many adjustments patients must make when they get braces near Placer County, and sometimes many of the new rules may seem hard to follow. However, Dr. Michael Payne wants to remind you how important it is that you do listen to rules. One of the most important rules is avoiding hard and sticky foods, as these can hinder your treatment. If a food is especially hard or sticky, it can possibly break a bracket, wire, etc., and potentially extend treatment time. Additionally, many patients tend to need orthodontic appliances that assist with their braces treatment. These appliances are things like rubber bands, which help to move the teeth to the right position. Use these appliances exactly as they are directed, or treatment time will be longer.
Third, understand that accidents do happen, but it is extremely important to seek care for them immediately, as any problem that goes untreated will most likely produce a delay in your treatment. Braces are made of delicate brackets and arch-wires, and they can pop free or snap from eating hard and sticky foods. If for some reason your braces do break, don’t panic. First, Dr. Michael Payne recommends placing wax on any area that is causing you discomfort, and then contacting American River Orthodontics as soon as possible! You should come in so that the damages can be repaired, keeping your braces functioning properly and avoiding any delays. Dr. Michael Payne also recommends that any patients that play sports wear mouth guards to avoid accidents. Whenever you are playing, wear a mouth guard so that your braces are not exposed to any pressure or hits. This will keep all the parts in the right places and keep you on track to get your braces off as soon as possible!
Lastly, follow a strict schedule with your orthodontist. Throughout your treatment, you will need to come into the office for checkups, adjustments, and more. The American River Orthodontics team will work with you to make appointments on dates and times that are best for you, so it is important that you do attend each and every one of them. We understand that our patients near Placer County have busy schedules, and are sometimes unable to make it. If this is the case, be sure to let us know as soon as you can, and create a new appointment right away, as staying consistent and on time with your appointments is just another important step in making sure that your treatment runs smoothly and efficiently.
By following these simple steps, patients can do their part to speed up their time wearing braces and get that beautiful smile you’ve been anxiously awaiting! If you have any questions about these steps, or are looking for the best orthodontist to help you achieve your goal, feel free to contact American River Orthodontics near Placer County today at 916.786.2442!