They say you don’t know real pain unless you’ve got power chains. People with braces know the struggle too well of having connected strings of ligatures/elastics on their brackets. They complain to their trusted dentist in Makati about the constant pain and discomfort they feel on their teeth and gums. Unlike the traditional elastics that hold the brackets individually, power chains are designed to form a continuous band that runs across the teeth which hold the brackets simultaneously. They are commonly made of rubber but in some cases, metal twists. Moreover, they also apply more pressure on the teeth and gums than the brackets, archwire, and traditional elastics do alone. As a result, the treatment time to close gaps and align pearly whites is sped up. The only downside is that the oral cavity becomes more sensitive. Here are the dos and don’ts one must follow to relieve discomfort and help power chains do their job well.
Practice proper oral hygiene.
Brush. Floss. Rinse with mouthwash. This is the trinity that you shouldn’t forget to keep your oral cavity in its best shape. Cleaning your teeth, gums, tongue and cheeks removes food stuck in your braces and prevents stubborn plaque and tartar buildup in the spaces between teeth. Moreover, this protects your oral cavity against possible infections. Remember, healthy teeth and gums make it easier for power chains, archwires and brackets to adhere on the surface of pearly whites and align them properly.
Mind what you eat.
Eating is always a delight but it is crucial for people with braces and power chains to think before they chew. Avoid sticky foods and sugary beverages like gum, caramel, gummy bears, wine and soda. These get stuck in the braces and encourages stain and bacteria buildup. Don’t chew hard foods as they can bend the archwires, remove the brackets, and loosen up power chains. Choose soft or mashed foods instead to prevent unnecessary pressure on your teeth.
Protect your braces.
Tell your dentist if you’re an athlete or love playing active sports such as basketball, football, and boxing, so you can have a customized protective mouthguard designed to protect your braces and teeth. Although the brackets and power chains seem to be steadfast to your pearly whites, pressure from external factors can still affect them. If not cared properly, parts of your braces may be loose or broken, and will automatically make your treatment longer.
Go for a regular checkup.
Visit your trusted dentist in Makati every four weeks for the examination of your power chains, adjustment of your braces, and cleaning of your oral cavity. Remember, skipping your appointments will only prolong your treatment, and no one wants that. Don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist and schedule your visit.
Wearing braces takes time to align your teeth, but you can make the treatment quicker when you maintain good communication with your dentist in Makati and properly care for your brackets, power chains and archwires. Follow these tips and end up with the results you want!
Life Today 