Our patients are often not aware of just how much of an impact their choices and approach during their orthodontic treatment can have on the final outcome, and on on how long it takes and their level of comfort during the process.
Your choices during orthodontic treatment can have a significant impact on how things turn out in the end. Here are a few things you can do yourself that will have a positive effect on your treatment progress and outcome.
Taking a Positive, Proactive Approach
The braces process can a bit uncomfortable and frustrating at times, and most people aren't especially thrilled to learn they need braces. However, choosing to take a positive approach to your treatment, and doing everything in your power to make it go smoothly, will do you a lot of good when it comes to achieving a positive outcome.
And don't forget: the end result of this process will be the healthy, straight, beautiful, smile you've always wanted!
Good Oral Hygiene
Your oral hygiene routine is more important than ever with braces. It's also one factor that you have total control over in respects to the outcome of your treatment.
Braces have lots of little nooks and crannies in which food particles and plaque can collect. This, in turn, can very quickly lead to discolouration of teeth, bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. These dental problems can make your orthodontic treatment process more uncomfortable, and can potentially prolong it as well, and may have negative consequences for your eventual results.
So be extra careful and thorough when cleaning your teeth, do it consistently, and take your time!
Attending Regular Appointments
Attend your regularly scheduled appointments with your dentist and orthodontist faithfully. This includes adjustment appointments, of course, and also regular check ups and cleanings!
If you have to reschedule an appointment, try to make it into our office as soon as possible; if you put it off, you’ll just wind up prolonging your treatment process.
Wearing & Caring for Your Orthodontic Appliances as Prescribed
When we tell you to take your Invisalign aligners out only when you eat, brush and floss, or when we tell you to to wear your retainer full time, it’s not because we have it out for you! Our goal in all our advice, treatment and prescriptions is always to make your treatment as efficient and effective as possible. If you don't wear your appliances as prescribed, or don't follow all care instructions meticulously, your progress will only be slower in the end.