Dr. Jenny Yoo-Park and the staff at Palo-Alto Orthodontics provide their patients with the best orthodontic care near Redwood City, CA. They work hard to ensure that every patient is provided with the appropriate, gentle, and affordable care they need and expect to solve any orthodontic problem.
Braces are made with three basic parts: a bracket, a bonding mechanism or band, and an archwire. These all work to help with improving the development of your teeth, bite and jaw. If you’re experiencing a difference in the function of your braces, such as a loose brace or bracket, your braces may be broken and thus aren’t delivering the effective treatment your teeth need. The team at Palo-Alto Orthodontics near Redwood City, CA are experts in informing and guiding patients on how to keep their braces in good working order and on track to deliver the best treatment outcome possible.
What can cause harm to my braces?
- Hard candies
- Ice cubes
- Gum, gummies, and other hard or sticky foods
- Injury to the face
There are several factors that can ultimately cause damage to your braces and prevent them from working as designed. The team at Palo-Alto Orthodontics know that sticky substances such as gum or hard foods can cause damage to the brackets and/or the wires of your braces. When adjusting to a newly fitted set of braces, it’s important to stay proactive and keep them safe, for instance, by eating softer foods at least initially. Stay aware of what foods you’re eating and what activities you are participating in. Not only will this keep your braces safe, but it will ensure your continued oral health, as well.
Some signs that your braces need to be fixed.
- Loose or missing bracket
- Broken or loose wire
- Severe discomfort or pain in your teeth, mouth, and/or jaw
Ways to avoid discomfort while wearing braces.
- Create a diet of soft food diet (e.g., pasta, soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and other soft stuff).
- Rinse with warm salt water 2-to-3 times a day.
- Consult with your doctor and take an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed.
It’s normal to feel discomfort in and around your mouth while wearing braces, especially if they’ve been newly fitted. This pain doesn’t necessarily mean your braces are broken or ill-fitting. However, Dr. Jenny Yoo-Park says that if you continue to experience pain in your teeth, mouth or jaw, call your orthodontist immediately.
Don’t wait.
If you are an orthodontic patient and you think you’re experiencing a problem with your braces, waiting for your next appointment with your orthodontist may do more harm than good in the progress of straightening your smile. Don’t wait. Call Dr. Jenny Yoo-Park and the team at Palo-Alto Orthodontics near Redwood City, CA at: 650-327-2310