Although it is not a very complicated structure, braces are made up of various components. Without knowing its exact structure and the characteristics of the individual parts, there is no point in tinkering with it. - Extreme situations are extremely rare, and some problems can be remedied by yourself at home. However, in extreme cases, a visit to the surgery is necessary , advises Piotr Fudalej, MD, University of Bern.

Every day with braces

Patients have a lot of fears before having braces fitted. However, not much changes in normal functioning. By following the basic rules, coping with the new situation will not be a problem. The foundation for trouble-free braces wear is good hygiene - your teeth need special attention during this period. It is worth learning a little about the accessories available on the market. Interdental brushes, an irrigator, dental floss and mouthwash are the bare minimum for proper care. Your existing diet also needs to be taken into consideration. Although it may be difficult, hard (fruit, vegetables, nuts) and sticky (gums, sweets) products should be significantly reduced or completely eliminated. In this way, you will save yourself unnecessary trouble.

There is no need to wait

Problems with braces should be solved right away; after all, it is our teeth that are at stake. Waiting too long to have the appliance repaired or replaced can have undesirable consequences. We also risk prolonging the treatment time. A quick visit to the orthodontist should be arranged when one of the elements of the braces breaks. Such a situation requires immediate contact with a specialist. Equally dangerous is the detachment of the bracket from the tooth. Thanks to ligatures, the detached part will not fall off, but it may, however, cause significant discomfort. - This is usually caused by eating hard foods. It also happens that the bracket detaches during tooth brushing. If, in spite of the ligature, a part slips off the arch, it should be kept for the appointment so that the orthodontist can reattach it , explains Piotr Fudalej, MD, University of Bern.

It can be comfortable

Braces are wrongly associated with pain and discomfort. However, wearing them does not have to be a nightmare. Although irritation of the cheeks, tongue or palate is quite common - there is a way around this. The ends of the bows can protrude and thus injure the mucous membranes. This usually occurs when eating or speaking. It can also be the result of gradual movement of the teeth. In order to prevent injury, you should equip yourself with a special wax. By applying it to the sharp edges, further injury will be prevented and the wound will have time to heal. There is a misconception in the general public that wearing braces is painful. Yes, there may be some pain for a few days after fitting. But don't be discouraged - it soon subsides. The teeth need to get used to it, and this time is an individual matter.

The course of orthodontic treatment cannot be predicted. We may encounter various obstacles on our way to a beautiful smile. However, this is not a reason to give it up. Systematic check-ups, correct hygiene and the telephone number of a specialist within reach are enough to make the process of straightening teeth smooth and effective at the same time.