Eating with Braces: What to Avoid and What to Eat

If you have braces, you know that eating the right foods is important. Your braces help straighten your teeth and eating the wrong foods can actually prevent them from working correctly.

Thankfully, there are plenty of “braces-friendly” foods you can still eat and enjoy.

Here are the foods you can enjoy, which foods to avoid, and some tips on eating with braces.

Foods to Eat

Eating with braces doesn’t have to be complicated. There are many braces-friendly foods that you can eat throughout your orthodontic treatment.

Some of our favorites include:

• Soft fruits like bananas, kiwis, and oranges
• Mashed potatoes
• Cooked veggies like carrots, green beans, and squash
• Soups
• Yogurt
• Pasta

In general, soft foods are ideal, especially in the beginning when your mouth may be sensitive.

Foods to Avoid

Like how certain foods are easier to eat, there are some you should stay away from.

These include:

• Sticky foods
• Hard foods
• Candy
• Nuts
• Popcorn
• Beef jerky
• Hard bread and chips

These foods can damage your orthodontics or get stuck in them, which can be painful and difficult to clean.

We also recommend avoiding biting your nails and chewing pens. These bad habits can lead to problems down the road. You should also avoid opening bottles with your teeth. Biting fingernails, “picking” your braces with your fingers or nails, chewing on pens or pencils or chewing on ice can bend the wires and break brackets off your teeth.

Limiting Your Sugar Intake

While sugary foods aren’t necessarily bad for your braces, it is important to limit your intake. Too much sugar can cause cavities, and we want to avoid that while you’re wearing braces. In addition, when you combine sugar with braces, sugar can get trapped in your teeth and lead to decay.

If you do eat sugary foods, make sure you brush your teeth afterward. And, as always, floss!

Soft drinks, fruit juices and sports drinks are extremely high in sugar content and are the number one leading cause of decalcification (white scars on the teeth) during orthodontic treatment. Avoid drinking regular soda pop, fruit juices and sports drinks high in sugar content during treatment. You may drink diet pop, but try to limit it to one per day at the most.

Tips for Eating with Braces

Now that you know what to eat and avoid, here are a few tips for eating with braces:

• Chew slowly and thoroughly to prevent pain and discomfort.
• Use a straw when drinking to avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice.
• Cut food into small pieces to make chewing easier.
• If you are uncertain whether you should eat a particular food, it’s best to avoid it.

Above all else, you need to give yourself time to adjust to eating with braces. It might take a little time to acclimate, but it will get easier once you establish a routine.

If you have any questions regarding eating with braces, ask your orthodontist. They can give you specific instructions and guidance based on your treatment plan.

Conclusion

Eating with braces doesn’t have to be difficult. You can eat many braces-friendly foods, and avoiding certain foods will keep your braces in good shape.

Adjusting to braces can take a while, so view this as an opportunity to try new foods and cuisines. With a bit of care, you can enjoy your orthodontic treatment and have the smile you’ve always wanted.

If you are interested in learning more about braces, Dr. Yazji Orthodontics offers free consultations. Schedule an appointment today to start your journey to a straighter smile.

Virtual Consultations and Anywhere Smiles: How to Get Braces Online

Are you looking for braces online? Sounds crazy, right? These days, you can do just about anything from your phone. You can order your groceries, you can buy clothes, and now you can even receive orthodontic treatment.

If you want braces without having to go into an office, Dr. Yazji has the perfect solution: virtual consultations! She also offers, Anywhere Smiles®, a remote dental monitoring system that provides Invisalign® treatment without leaving your home.

Let’s discuss these treatment options and how you can start your orthodontic journey with braces online today.

Virtual Consultations

Dr. Yazji is proud to offer virtual consultations for those who want braces online. All you need is a device with a camera, such as a laptop, desktop computer, tablet, or even your smartphone.

To get started, simply schedule a consultation by clicking here. Someone will contact you and shortly you’ll receive an email with a link. Once you complete the information and send your pictures, the treatment coordinator will reach out to you to schedule your appointment.

During your consultation, she will get to know you and your smile goals. Dr. Yazji will also answer any questions you might have about orthodontic treatments.

She will provide you with advice and information on topics like:

• how to clean and care for your braces
• how orthodontics will benefit you
• what to expect during your treatment
• how long you will need to wear your braces
• which treatment options are suitable for you
• and much more!

At the end of your consultation, you’ll better understand what orthodontic treatment can do for you and your smile.

Once you decide to move forward, Dr. Yazji will create a treatment plan that works for you.

Anywhere Smiles®

In addition to virtual consultations, Dr. Yazji offers Anywhere Smiles®, through Dental Monitoring, a remote dental monitoring app that uses artificial intelligence. This app will help track your progress and ensure that your treatment is on track. And, it will provide everything you need without coming into the office, saving you time and money.

After your initial consultation, you will first come in to get your set of Invisalign® aligners. Afterward, you can download the dental monitoring app to your mobile phone.

Then, your appointments will be pre-scheduled, and you will receive an alert when it’s time for your next check-in. You won’t need to come in to be seen, simply scan and submit an image of your smile from your phone anywhere, anytime. At these appointments, you can ask any questions about your treatment and get expert advice from Dr. Yazji herself.

Once Dr. Yazji receives your scans, she will be able to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. This process will help ensure you’re on track to achieving your smile goals.

When it’s time for your next set of Invisalign® aligners, you will get a notification through the app.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment has never been more convenient than with braces online from Dr. Yazji. With virtual consultations and Anywhere Smiles®, you can get the smile you’ve always wanted without having to leave your home.

If you’re interested in braces online, schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Yazji today. She will be able to answer all of your orthodontic questions and concerns.

Zoom Meetings: How Orthodontic Treatment Can Help You Smile Confidently

We’ve all been there. Sitting by our computer, Zoom meeting loaded and ready to go- when we suddenly become aware of our teeth. Maybe they’re crooked, or perhaps you just don’t like how they look when you smile. No matter the reason, it’s easy to feel self-conscious during virtual meetings when you’re not happy with your smile.

In this article, we’ll discuss how orthodontic treatment can help you feel more confident during your zoom meetings.

Signs You’re Self-conscious about Your Smile During Zoom Meetings

There are some telltale signs you’re feeling uncomfortable during virtual meetings. For example, maybe you find yourself covering your mouth when you speak or laugh. Or, perhaps you’ve noticed that you’re not smiling as much as usual.

Other symptoms include:

• Not participating or drawing attention away from yourself
• Avoiding eye contact
• Speaking and smiling less
• Fidgeting

If you feel less confident than usual, you’re not alone. In fact, one study shows that many experience zoom fatigue, often due to nonverbal cues. This includes feeling like everyone is staring at you or feeling anxious when seeing your face on the screen.

If these symptoms and feelings sound familiar, it might be time to consider orthodontic treatment. No one should feel ashamed of their teeth and smile, and you don’t have to with treatment.

Orthodontic Treatments Can Help Improve Your Smile Discreetly

When you think about orthodontics, you may be picturing metal braces. However, there have been significant improvements in the orthodontic field in recent years. Now, there are orthodontic treatments available that can help improve your teeth discreetly.

Invisalign® is one treatment option that uses clear aligners to straighten your teeth gradually. These clear aligners are virtually invisible, and no one will be able to tell that you’re wearing them. You should remove them when eating or drinking unless for cold water. So you won’t have to worry about food getting stuck in your braces or feeling uncomfortable during the workday. If you wish you can also remove them during your Zoom meeting but trust us no one will be able to tell you’re undergoing Invisalign® treatment.

Another option is lingual braces. These braces are on the back of your teeth instead of the front. This makes them virtually invisible and an excellent option for those who want to improve their smile discreetly. With lingual braces, you can enjoy your virtual meetings without worrying people will notice your braces.

How Orthodontic Treatments Benefit Your Confidence and Oral Health

In addition to enhancing the appearance of your teeth, orthodontic treatments can also boost oral health. For instance, straightening your teeth can help to reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

What’s more, confident people tend to be happier and healthier overall. So, by improving your smile with orthodontic treatment, you could be doing wonders for your confidence and health.

The Bottom Line

Orthodontic treatment could be the answer if you’re self-conscious about your smile during zoom meetings. With a range of discreet treatments available, there’s no reason to feel self-conscious any longer. Not only will you look great after orthodontic treatment, but you’ll also be boosting your oral health.

So, what are you waiting for? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Yazji today and start feeling confident about your smile. Do you live in Miami-Dade County? Dr. Yazji has two locations in Miami: one in the financial district in downtown Miami, Brickell; and a second location close to FIU, in West Miami. If you’re in Broward County in South Florida, Dr. Yazji has an orthodontic practice in Weston, FL. Book a free braces consultation and get started on the journey to a smile you’ll love. 

Seeing a Braces Specialist: What to Expect

If you’re considering braces, one of the first things you’ll need to do is find a braces specialist. Orthodontists are dental professionals who specialize in braces and other orthodontic treatments. They can help correct numerous dental problems, from crooked teeth to overbites. If you’re considering improving your smile, it’s important to know what to expect. Let’s discuss the steps that usually occur during a consultation with a braces specialist in Miami.

Braces Specialist in Miami – Scheduling Your Consultation

The first step is scheduling an appointment. You can do this by calling the orthodontist’s office or visiting their website.

When selecting an orthodontist, ask yourself:

• Do they offer the braces options I’m interested in?
• Do they have experience with my type of dental issue?
• What are their office hours?
• Is the office location convenient for me?
• Do they offer convenient orthodontic checkups?

Once you’ve found an orthodontist that meets your needs, it’s time to schedule a consultation. This is usually a short, free-standing appointment that lasts 30 minutes to an hour.

What to Expect During Your Consultation with a Braces Specialist

During your consultation, the orthodontist will look and study your teeth, mouth, and profile digitally. They will pay attention to your symmetry. They’ll also ask about your dental history and what type of results you’re hoping to achieve.

The orthodontist may also:

• Take X-rays of your teeth
• Take photos of your face and teeth
• Make impressions of your teeth
• Do a 3D scan of your teeth

They will also provide you with an estimate of how long treatment will take and what it will cost. The success of any time of orthodontic treatment will also depend on how compliant the patient is. Your orthodontist can outline a custom treatment plan but it’s vital that the patient follow the instructions.

Treatment Options

The next step is considering your treatment options. Your braces specialist will review the available options and help you choose the best one for your needs.

Popular orthodontic treatments include:

• Traditional braces: These metal braces are the most common type of braces. They’re made of high-grade stainless steel and attach to the front of your teeth.
• Clear braces: Clear braces use clear, durable plastic or ceramic material. They’re less noticeable than traditional braces and are a popular choice for adults.
• Lingual braces: Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces but are on the back of your teeth. This placement makes them less visible than other types of braces.
• Invisalign®: Invisalign® is a popular discreet alternative to braces. These clear, removable aligners gradually move your teeth into place without the need for metal brackets or wires.

Once you’ve decided on an orthodontic treatment plan, it’s time to schedule your next appointment. This is when you’ll get your braces and start treatment.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve gone over what to expect when seeing an orthodontist, you’re one step closer to a perfect smile. If you have any questions about braces or other orthodontic treatments, be sure to ask a braces specialist. They’ll be more than happy to assist you on your journey to a straighter smile.

Dr. Yazji is an experienced braces specialist that offers a wide variety of braces options to patients in South Florida. If you’re considering braces for you or anyone in the family, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and get you started on the path to a beautiful smile. Dr. Maria Yazji treats patients of all ages in three different locations in South Florida: Weston, Brickell, and West Miami. Book a complimentary braces consultation today! 

Why You Should Have an Orthodontic Consultation for Your Child by Age 7

Did you know that the American Association of Orthodontics recommends having an orthodontic consultation for your child by age 7? By this age, your child’s permanent teeth should be coming in, and an orthodontist can spot early dental problems.

Let’s discuss the benefits of having an orthodontic consultation for your child by age seven.

Early Orthodontic Treatment Can Be Less Invasive

If an orthodontist catches dental issues early on, treatment is often less painful. This means your child won’t have to endure as much discomfort during treatment.

At this time, your child’s teeth and jaw are still growing, so the orthodontist can use this to their advantage.

Early Treatment Can Be Less Time-consuming

If you catch orthodontic problems during childhood, the treatment process can be much shorter. This is because less work is required to correct the problem during childhood.

Orthodontic treatment can take years with more serious issues like underbites and overbites. However, an orthodontist can significantly reduce the treatment time with early treatment.

It May Make Future Orthodontic Treatment Easier

If dental problems are untreated, they can often lead to more severe issues down the road. This is why it’s so important to have an orthodontic consultation for your child by age seven.

An orthodontist can spot problems early on and make a plan to prevent them from getting worse. This way, if your child does need orthodontic treatment in the future, it will be much simpler.

Furthermore, crooked teeth can lead to oral health problems like gum disease. Orthodontic treatment can help your child better care for their teeth and prevent these problems from developing.

Booking an Orthodontic Consultation for Your Child

If you’re considering braces for your child, the best thing to do is book an orthodontic consultation. An orthodontist will be able to assess your child’s teeth and jaw and recommend the best course of action.

If your child is nervous or uninterested in braces or other orthodontic devices, don’t worry. Many treatment options are available, and the orthodontist will work with you to find the best one for your child.

Don’t wait until your child is in pain or has visible dental problems. The sooner you book an appointment, the better.

The Bottom Line

Even if your child’s dentist doesn’t recommend braces, it’s essential to get an orthodontic consultation by age seven. A dentist may not be able to spot certain orthodontic problems, but an orthodontist can. By catching these problems early, you can save your child from a lot of pain (and expense) down the road.

Additionally, orthodontic consultations are quick and easy, so there’s no harm in bringing your child in. By ringing your children in at a young age, you can save a lot of money and time in the long run.

Dr. Yazji has ample experience working with children and can help you catch their dental issues early on. Schedule an orthodontic consultation today to discover potential treatment options. Booking a free consultation is easy, simply call our office at 954.217.3737 or complete the form and we’ll call you. Offices in Weston, Miami Downtown Brickell, and West Miami close to FIU.

Should Your Teenager See an Invisalign® Doctor?

An Invisalign® doctor is only a click away! If you’re considering Invisalign® for your teenager, you may be wondering if it’s the right decision. Invisalign® is becoming more and more popular – in fact, it’s one of the fastest-growing orthodontic treatments available.

If your teenager is insecure about their appearance and dental issues, Invisalign® may be the perfect treatment option.

Below, we will discuss some of the benefits of Invisalign® for teenagers. We will also discuss what to look for when seeking an Invisalign® Doctor.

Invisalign® is Discreet

Invisalign® is less obvious than chunky metal braces. In fact, many people may not even notice that your teenager is wearing them! This is especially important for teenagers who are self-conscious about their appearance.

This can be a huge relief during school dances or other important life events.

Invisalign® is More Comfortable

In addition, Invisalign® aligners use more gradual, softer movements than braces. Therefore, any potential discomfort will be milder than if they had braces. The pain felt with braces is relatively mild and usually short-lived, but with Invisalign®, it’s even softer.

Additionally, they make eating and talking much easier than braces.

Invisalign® is Convenient

Another great benefit of Invisalign® for teenagers is the convenience factor. Invisalign® aligners are removable at valuable times, such as when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. This means your teenager can continue to eat their favorite foods and brush and floss as they normally would.

With Invisalign®, there are also no food restrictions like there are with braces.

Invisalign® Teen

In recent years, Invisalign® has developed a unique Invisalign® system specifically designed for teenagers.

This includes SmartForce® Attachments, which discreetly help the Invisalign® retainers stay attached and comfortable.

Precision wings are also available to help gently move the jaw to improve bite issues and chin appearance.

Finding an Invisalign® Doctor

If you’re considering Invisalign® for your teenager, the first step is to find an Invisalign® doctor. Invisalign® doctors are specially trained and certified in Invisalign® treatment.

Some factors to include when finding an Invisalign® doctor include:

• Their experience level working with children and teenagers
• Cost
• Location
• Available treatment options
• Whether they use the latest Invisalign® technology

An Invisalign® doctor will be able to answer any questions you have about orthodontic treatment.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re considering Invisalign® for your teenager, the next step is to schedule a consultation with an Invisalign® doctor. During the consultation, an orthodontist will examine your teenager’s teeth and discuss their available options.

They will also develop a treatment plan and give you an estimate of the cost of Invisalign® treatment.

Conclusion

If you’re considering Invisalign® for your teenager, these are just a few of the benefits to keep in mind. Invisalign® is an exceptional choice for teenagers self-conscious about their appearance and desiring inconspicuous treatment. In addition, Invisalign® is more comfortable than braces and is very convenient.

In no time, your teenager will have the beautiful, straight teeth they’ve always wanted!

Dr. Yazji is a Diamond Top 1% Invisalign® provider and has ample experience helping teenagers achieve beautiful and straight teeth. Schedule a consultation today to see how Invisalign® can help your teenager!

Dating with Invisalign® Braces

If you’re considering getting Invisalign® braces, you may be wondering if they will interfere with your love life. Starting a new relationship can be daunting enough and adding Invisalign® into the mix may seem like a recipe for disaster.

But rest assured. The good news is that you can still date Invisalign® and won’t have to put your love life on hold. In fact, one of the big advantages of Invisalign® braces is that they’re much more discreet than traditional metal ones.

Let’s go over a few things you should know about dating Invisalign®.

You Can Still Kiss with Invisalign® Braces

One of the most common questions we get asked is, “Can you still kiss with Invisalign®?” The answer is yes! You can still kiss and do all the things you love to do. The great thing about Invisalign® is that they’re much more comfortable than traditional braces and easier to keep clean.

So, if you’re considering getting Invisalign®, don’t let the fear of dating stop you. With time, you’ll acclimate to wearing your aligners and feel more confident about them.

You Can Remove Invisalign® Braces When Eating

Another common concern is that you won’t be able to eat in front of your date with Invisalign®. While it’s true that you should avoid hard and sticky foods, you can remove your Invisalign® when eating. This means you can still enjoy your favorite foods on a date without worry.

Although it may be tempting to remove your Invisalign® for the duration of your date, you should avoid doing this. Once you remove them, it’s easy to forget to put them back in. And, if you leave them out for too long, your teeth can start to shift back into their original position.

So, if you’re on a date and want to enjoy some of your favorite foods, remember to put them back in. Keep your Invisalign® in for at least 20-22 hours daily to ensure that your treatment is effective.

A Word of Caution

Of course, as with anything new, there is a bit of a learning curve. When you first start wearing Invisalign®, you may find that your aligners feel bulky or uncomfortable.

But don’t worry, it gets easier with time. And, if you’re really struggling, there are Invisalign® attachments that can help your aligners grip your teeth better. These attachments are usually clear, so they’re not very noticeable. However, they can make your teeth a little sharp without your Invisalign® in. Therefore, it’s best to avoid kissing without your Invisalign® if you have attachments.

The Bottom Line

If you’re dating someone new, you may feel self-conscious about your Invisalign® at first. But remember that they’re just braces, and everyone goes through an adjustment period when they first start wearing them.

Overall, dating with Invisalign® is possible and doesn’t have to be a hassle. With time and patience, you won’t even notice them and will feel more confident about your smile.

Dr. Yazji is a Diamond Top 1% Invisalign® Provider nationwide and can help you with all your Invisalign® questions. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit our website or give us a call today at (786)558-5688.

Does My Child Need an Orthodontic Expander Before Braces?

If your child needs an orthodontic expander, using one can bring significant benefits down the road. But how do you know if an expander is necessary and what type is best for them?

It all depends on your child’s mouth and treatment plan. For example, some children need expanders to correct a narrow palate or crossbite. Others may require them to create more space for crowded teeth, while some children won’t need one at all.

This article will discuss if a child needs an expander before getting braces and which type of expander might be best for them.

What Is an Orthodontic Expander?

An orthodontic expander is a device used to expand or widen your child’s jaw or palate. This extra space allows their adult teeth to grow normally. There are two types of expanders, including:

• Removable: A removable expander is a small device your child can take in and out of their mouth. This type of expander is for children who have a narrow palate.
• Fixed: A fixed expander bonds to the back molars and cannot be removed without an orthodontist. This expander is for children with more severe issues.

Your child may need an expander if:

• They have a narrow palate: A narrow palate can crowd the teeth and cause problems with speech and chewing.
• They have a crossbite: This occurs when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, which can lead to tooth wear and gum disease.
• They have severe bite issues: When the teeth don’t meet properly, it can cause pain and difficulty chewing.

What Are the Benefits of an Orthodontic Expander?

If your child needs an expander, there are several benefits to using one, including:

• Creating more space for crowded teeth: This can help prevent the need for extractions in the future.
• Improving speech: An expander can help with speech problems caused by a narrow palate.
• Correcting a crossbite: This can help improve the function of the teeth and prevent gum disease.
• Preparing for braces: An expander can help create more space for the teeth, making braces more effective.

Helping Your Child Get Used to an Orthodontic Expander

It is common for children to feel uncomfortable or have trouble speaking clearly when they first start using an expander. However, these feelings usually go away after a few days.

To help your child acclimate to their new expander:

• Start with short periods: If removable, have your child wear the expander for 30 minutes to an hour at a time.
• Provide soft foods: To avoid irritating the gums, give your child soft foods to eat while adjusting to their new expander.
• Encourage positive thinking: Help your child see their expander as a positive thing that will help their teeth and jaws grow correctly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re unsure if your child needs an expander, talk to their orthodontist. They will be able to assess your child’s mouth and create a treatment plan that is best for them.

Dr. Maria Yazji is an award-winning orthodontist dedicated to helping children achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Contact us today if you have any questions about expanders or want to schedule a consultation for Weston, Brickell, or West Miami. We look forward to hearing from you!

Now It’s Your Turn to Get Braces, Dad!

Father’s Day is coming up, and what could be better than giving your dad the gift of a great smile? Many dads put their families first and don’t always care for themselves. This Father’s Day, why not allow him to do something for himself and get braces? Learn more about Dental Braces for Adults in Miami.

It may seem strange, but getting braces is an investment in your dad’s health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which means fewer dentist trips for cavities and other problems. And, of course, a straighter smile looks great!

Dental Braces for Adults in Miami

The type of braces your dad chooses will depend on his personal preference and what the orthodontist recommends.

Here are some of the most popular types of braces:

• Metal Braces: Traditional metal braces are high-grade stainless-steel brackets and wires attached to the front of your teeth.
• Clear Braces: Clear braces are clear or tooth-colored brackets and are less visible than metal braces.
• Invisalign®: Invisalign® is a popular choice for adults because they are virtually invisible. This treatment option uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth gradually.
• Lingual braces: Lingual braces are like metal braces but are attached to the back of your teeth and hidden from view.

What Are the Benefits of Getting Dental Braces?

There are many benefits of getting braces, both for adults and children.

Braces can:

• Improve your oral health
• Help you chew and eat more easily
• Make it easier to brush and floss your teeth
• Boost your self-esteem and confidence

If you or your dad are considering braces, be sure to consult with an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Yazji. She will help you determine what braces would be best for your lifestyle and treatment.

How Dental Braces Can Improve Your Dad’s Life

If your dad is self-conscious about his smile, getting braces can help him feel more confident. A great smile is one of the first things people notice. And, it can make a big difference in how your dad feels about himself.

In addition to improving his appearance, braces can also improve your dad’s oral health. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. By straightening his teeth, you’ll be helping your dad to avoid these problems.

Finally, getting braces can be a great bonding experience for you and your dad. You can share the experience of wearing braces and watching your teeth get straighter. This can be a way to spend more time together and create lasting memories.

Final Thoughts

Your dad will be sure to appreciate the thoughtfulness of this unique gift. Not only that, but you’ll get to spend some quality time together while he gets his braces! So give the gift of a great smile this Father’s Day.

Dr. Yazji specializes in braces for both children and adults. Contact us today to schedule a consultation if you’re considering orthodontics for your dad or yourself. We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions or concerns. Dr. Yazji has offices in Weston, Brickell, and West Miami. Call today to book a free smile consultation.

Happy Father’s Day!

Orthodontic Emergencies: What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

If you’re wearing braces or an orthodontic appliance, it’s important to know what to do if something goes wrong while you’re on vacation, away from your orthodontist. Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but it’s good to know how to handle them when they happen.

Let’s discuss some common orthodontic emergencies and what you can do to fix them.

Trapped Food

If you have food caught between your teeth and braces, try removing it with a water flosser or interdental brush. If that doesn’t work, try using a toothpick or floss.

Be careful not to damage your gums or braces while removing the food. If you can’t get the food out, don’t panic. Your orthodontist will be able to help if you are struggling.

Mouth Sores and Irritation

Mouth sores are common when you first get braces. They usually go away on their own within a week or two. To help with the pain and discomfort, you can take ibuprofen for pain relief if needed. Of course, always consult with your doctor.

If the mouth sores don’t go away or become too painful, try using wax on the irritating brackets or wires. If that doesn’t help, contact your orthodontist. Your orthodontist will make you feel comfortable.

Loose Ligatures

Ligatures are the rubber bands that hold the wire to the brackets. If a ligature comes loose, try putting it back in place with tweezers. If you can’t do that, contact your orthodontist for an emergency appointment.

Before starting, sterilize your tweezers to ensure you aren’t introducing new bacteria to your mouth.

Protruding Wires

If a wire is poking you, try using a cotton swab or eraser to push it back into place. You can cover the end of the wire with a small piece of wax until you see your orthodontist.

With particularly bothersome wires, you can use pliers to bend them away from your mouth. But be careful not to cut or damage the wire.

Loose Brackets and Bands

If a bracket or band comes loose, call your orthodontist immediately. In the meantime, you can put wax on the loose bracket or band if it’s causing discomfort.

With brackets, try using tweezers to move the bracket back into place. But be careful not to put any pressure on the wire attached to the bracket.

Your brackets and bands are instrumental in holding your braces in place. If one comes loose, it may mean that there is a problem with your adhesive.

The Bottom Line

Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but when they occur, it’s essential to know how to handle them. By following the steps above, you will help ensure your orthodontic treatment goes smoothly. The less emergencies you have, the quicker you’ll achieve a smile you’ll love. That’s why it’s important to care for your braces as your orthodontist instructed you.

Always remember to follow the instructions your orthodontist provided you when you got your braces on. Orthodontic emergencies can be prevented. They are usually caused by foods you’re not supposed to have. For more orthodontic tips and a list of foods you should avoid while in braces, you can click here.

If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. They will be happy to help you through any orthodontic emergency.

As an experienced orthodontist, Dr. Yazji offers a full range of orthodontic services to patients in the Miami area and Broward County. If you’re considering orthodontics in Miami call us at (954) 217-3737 or request an appointmentonline. We look forward to hearing from you!