Want 2022 to be the year of your best smile? Then setting some New Year’s resolutions is a great place to start! While brushing at least twice a day and cutting back on sugar are two great ideas, there are some specific goals you should set if you’re currently undergoing orthodontic treatment. With this in mind, keep reading to learn ideas for resolutions with braces.
#1. Be Diligent About Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth
Whether you have traditional braces or Invisalign, the last thing you want is to prolong your treatment plan. Unfortunately, that can happen if you neglect to care for your teeth. Therefore, it’s of the utmost importance that you are diligent about both brushing and flossing. To completely clean your teeth, floss between each tooth before brushing for two full minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride.
#2. Wear Your Appliances as Instructed
In short, instructions from your orthodontist aren’t optional, they are essential. For example, if you have Invisalign but neglect to abide by the 20-22 hour-a-day wear time, then you will likely fall off-track with your treatment plan, requiring a larger investment of your time and money. The same goes for appliances for traditional braces, like rubber bands. Prioritizing your orthodontist’s instructions will lead to a smoother and more efficient treatment experience.
#3. Pass on Hard, Sticky, and Sugary Foods and Drinks
Caramel brownies, peanut brittle, and fizzy soda may all cause your tastebuds to sing, but they can damage your braces and, more importantly, your teeth. So, one of your resolutions in 2022 should certainly be to pass on hard, sticky, and sugary foods and drinks. While it’s okay to indulge every now and again, do your best to stick to mostly vitamin-rich, nutrient-dense alternatives, like lean proteins and raw vegetables.
#4. Visit Your Dentist for a Checkup and Cleaning Biannually
Has it been more than six months since you last saw your dentist? Then use this blog as a reminder to schedule your next checkup and cleaning! Remember, these biannual visits play an essential role in keeping your teeth happy and healthy.
#5. Use a Mouthguard to Protect Your Smile
Do you grind your teeth at night? Do you participate in sports? If so, then getting a custom-made mouthguard (and wearing it!) should definitely be on your list of resolutions. This best practice will both protect your teeth and help prevent a dental emergency.
If you get inspired by a fresh start, then there is no time like the present to implement the above best practices. Your smile will thank you for it!
About the Practice
With Dr. Sam Alkhoury and Dr. Alan Carlotto leading our team, our patients at Simply Orthodontics can enjoy custom-made treatment plans that deliver gorgeous smiles time and time again. We want everyone to have a smooth treatment experience, which is why we prioritize patient education, like how to keep your smile healthy or stay on track with your treatment timeline. If you have a question about caring for your smile with braces or want to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at (508) 435-1200.