What To Expect At Your First Orthodontist Appointment

risingerortho on January 11, 2023

What To Expect At Your First Orthodontist Appointment

January 11, 2023
risingerortho

Adults and children seeking orthodontic care for the first time often have questions like, “What happens during your first orthodontic visit?”

At Risinger Orthodontics, we want to make your transition into a new smile as smooth and easy as possible. We provide a comfortable environment where we examine the framework of your teeth and map out a unique plan for your orthodontic care.

If you want to enhance your smile with the help of a qualified, caring orthodontic team, book an appointment at Risinger Orthodontics today!

Can You Get Braces On Your First Orthodontist Appointment?

Some patients ask, “Can you get braces during your first orthodontist appointment?”

We use your first appointment as preparation for your smile journey. We may not place braces during the first appointment, but we will take the first steps toward a healthier smile.

At Risinger Orthodontics, we examine your teeth, finding any gaps, crowding, or over or underbites that might need addressing during your treatment. Diagnostic tools like our iTero® digital scanner and digital x-rays help get a sense of your needs.

After reviewing your x-ray results, our team will work with you to determine what type of orthodontic treatment suits your budget, lifestyle, and the specific needs of your teeth. We’ll also estimate how long your treatment should take.

So, What Happens At Your First Orthodontist Appointment?

Think of your first appointment as a time to develop a strategy to provide the best orthodontic care possible for your unique smile. During this visit, you’ll get to know the team at Risinger Orthodontics. Our orthodontic experts develop an understanding of your dental needs, walking you through every detail of treatment, including

• Introductions – getting to know our qualified orthodontic team
• Paperwork and dental history – Providing proper documents to aid your orthodontist in choosing the appropriate plan to achieve your healthiest smile
• Initial exam and imaging – x-rays and tooth molds that help map out your treatment process
• Review exam results and pick a treatment plan – Working with your orthodontist to determine the best course of action to align your teeth
• Come prepared with questions – a time to ask how long, how often, and what is best for my teeth
• Go over financing and payment plans – Deciding which braces fit into your budget, if you will be using dental insurance, and which payment plan suits you
• Schedule an appointment to place your appliances – Deciding when to begin the next step in your orthodontic care

Introductions

At Risinger Orthodontics, we provide plenty of comforts to make you feel right at home during your initial visit. Our waiting room features a movie theater, a video arcade, personal headsets, fun contests, cookies, and ice cream. You and your family can meet our friendly team, who will give you an office tour and answer questions about our top-of-the-line treatment facilities.

Paperwork And Dental History

Understanding your dental history allows us to prepare your personalized care plan. We will ask you to fill out some forms about your medical and dental history. Be sure to bring any x-rays or other dental documents to your appointment so that we can build on your unique dental foundation.

Initial Exam And Imaging

During your initial exam, our diligent team will have you brush your teeth to prepare for the examination. We will examine your oral structures with dental tools, dental molds, and x-rays. This allows our team to observe any cavities that need filling before orthodontic care, the shape of your teeth, and any crowded, gapped or misaligned teeth.

Review Exam Results And Pick A Treatment Plan

After examining your teeth, you and the team at Risinger Orthodontics will work together to choose the best treatment plan for your unique smile. Often orthodontic treatments address dental issues and any misalignment in the jaw or facial structure caused by misalignments.

Some cases require specialized care from traditional braces, while some patients wear Invisalign to improve their smile. During your review, you will develop a better understanding of your dental needs and how long your treatment should take.

Come Prepared With Questions

The decision to wear braces and improve your smile is a big one. We want you to ask any questions during your initial visit.

Often our patients ask:

• What types of food should I avoid with braces?
• What are the different types of braces?
• How long do braces take to work?
• How often do I need to go to the orthodontist after braces?
• How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
• What payment plans do you offer?
• How long will I need to wear a retainer after my braces are removed?

Whatever the question, we seek to walk with you through the treatment process and provide all the guidance you need. You can even visit our website to learn more about braces care and cleaning.

Go Over Financing Options & Payment Plans

Every patient deserves a great smile and dental health.

One of the first questions new patients ask is, “How much does treatment cost?” Various factors, including the type of braces, your case condition, and the length of your treatment will determine the overall cost. That said, the average cost for braces and Invisalign before insurance can range from $2,500-$7,000.

Call our office today, and we will work with you and your budget to provide the orthodontic care you need. We accept just about every orthodontic insurance and provide a variety of financial options to help make braces and other orthodontic care affordable.

Schedule An Appointment To Place Your Appliances

After finishing all the paperwork, examinations, questions, and financing, you can make an appointment to begin your orthodontic treatment. We’ll provide all the information you need about regular visits and how to care for your appliances.

Occasionally, you may need dental work before wearing braces or other appliances. Make sure you schedule any suggested appointments to make quick progress toward your new smile.

Book Your First Orthodontist Appointment Today!

Don’t worry about setting your first orthodontic appointment. At Risinger Orthodontics, your teeth are in qualified, caring hands. We adjust smiles and improve lifestyles for many patients throughout Central Connecticut.

Book an appointment today or call us to learn more about our orthodontic services for kids and adults.

What is the Best Age for Orthodontic Treatment?

risingerortho on January 11, 2023

What is the Best Age for Orthodontic Treatment?

January 11, 2023
risingerortho

Getting orthodontic treatment is a big decision! Before taking that step, many of our patients want to ensure they know the best age to see an orthodontist.

While the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by their seventh birthday, there are other factors to consider when choosing the right time to get braces or aligners.

Keep reading to learn more about key orthodontic milestones and what to expect from treatment.

When is the Right Time to See an Orthodontist?

Orthodontics for Teenagers and Children

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child receive their first orthodontic check-up by age seven. By this age, most children have enough permanent teeth to diagnose any current or potential issues with their bite and jaw. Your orthodontist may suggest early treatment or decide it’s best to monitor your child’s bite development and possibly start treatment later.

Providing early treatment can help:

• Guide jaw and bite development
• Make it easier to brush and floss
• Prevent more serious conditions
• Allow future treatment to be shorter and less complicated
• Correct bad oral habits like thumb sucking
• Build a relationship with oral health providers

Orthodontics for Adults

More adults than ever are investing in orthodontic treatment to help align their teeth. Cutting-edge clear aligners and ceramic braces can provide massive advantages, including looking and feeling better and preventing orthodontic conditions from worsening without affecting your lifestyle.

Adults are often better positioned to benefit from orthodontic care because they are more diligent about complying with their treatment plan.

What to Expect from the First Consultation?

Your first consultation is the perfect opportunity for us to learn more about your orthodontic goals. We will ask you to complete a dental and medical history form and give you an office tour.

Dr. Rick will also:

• Conduct an oral exam — including scanning a 3D image of your smile
• Assess any orthodontic issues
• Discuss treatment options
• Create a custom treatment plan
• Review our payment options
• Answer your questions about treatment
• Schedule your next appointment

Still Wondering When to See an Orthodontist?

You should visit an orthodontist whenever you have questions about your — or your loved ones — teeth or jaw alignment or if changes occur in your bite. You may experience subtle discomfort or significant pain. Orthodontic issues can also make it difficult to chew, speak, or breathe.

Risinger Orthodontics is here to help. We have years of experience correcting various conditions, including:

• Crowded teeth
• Gapped teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Jaw misalignment
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite

An aligned smile can boost your confidence and ensure your teeth are healthy for years to come.

The Best Age for Orthodontic Treatment Varies, So Let Us Help!

It’s always a good time to invest in the health of your teeth. If you’re wondering if clear aligners or braces can give you a healthy smile, contact us to learn how we can help.

The team at Risinger Orthodontics has over 52 years of experience helping create stunning smiles in Central Connecticut. We can’t wait to meet you and your family and learn more about your orthodontic goals.

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment

risingerortho on October 31, 2022

Curious about when to start orthodontic treatment? Learn some of the signs from Connecticut’s most trusted orthodontist now.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

risingerortho on September 7, 2022

Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

September 7, 2022
risingerortho

According to The American Association of Orthodontists, at least 3 out of 4 people need orthodontic treatment. It’s no wonder why so many people want to know why orthodontic treatment is necessary.

The benefits of a beautiful smile are endless, providing many life-changing benefits.

At Risinger Orthodontics, we assist patients in obtaining a healthy, bright smile for their healthy, bright future.

Schedule an appointment to learn more about how we help you achieve your best smile.

When is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

Braces and other orthodontic treatments create the ideal environment for permanent teeth to grow correctly, providing a healthy bite, aligned teeth, and improved jaw alignment.

Some signs why orthodontic treatment is necessary include:

• Baby teeth that obstruct the growth of permanent teeth
• Crooked teeth that cause brushing difficulties
• Gapping teeth that cause sensitivity in gums
• Misaligned bites (Over or underbites) that cause difficulty eating and speaking

Many other factors lead to the need for orthodontic care. Scheduling a complimentary consultation is the best way to know if an orthodontic treatment makes sense for you.

Correct Bite Issues

A misaligned bite affects the alignment of your jaw. Occasionally, untreated bites lead to issues like TMJ (pains affecting the temporal mandibular joint and other parts of the face.)

Orthodontic treatment addresses this pain by guiding the teeth into a better position.

• An underbite – when the bottom teeth protrude further forward than the top teeth
• An overbite – when the bottom teeth position themselves too far back to meet with the top teeth
• An open bite – when a gap keeps the upper and lower teeth from meeting
• A crossbite – when a crooked upper tooth positions itself behind the bottom teeth

Addressing misalignment issues through orthodontic care improves the way you eat and your bone structure. To ensure healthy tooth growth, patients should address misalignment issues as early as possible.

Fix Crowding

Orthodontists highly recommend braces to reposition crowded teeth. The gentle adjustment of these teeth makes cleaning them more manageable and reduces the risk of cavities.

Resolve Speech Problems

Crowded teeth, misalignment, and other dental problems can affect your speaking and eating. These necessary processes become easier and more natural with orthodontic treatment.

Improve Self-Esteem

Wonky teeth keep people from embracing their fullest potential. If you hide your teeth behind a closed-mouth smile, braces can give you the confidence to smile and laugh whole-heartedly.

Prevent Cavities & Decay

The hygiene of your teeth affects your health. Problems like gingivitis, tooth decay, and cavities occur more often in crooked teeth because they are harder to clean. Correcting your alignment with braces creates a more effective teeth-cleaning routine.

Why is Early Treatment Beneficial?

Orthodontists recommend an initial appointment for children ages six and seven. While all children need orthodontic care at this age, others benefit from minor intervention adjustments.

Phase 1 Orthodontics can include palatal expanders to encourage proper structuring of the bones in the mouth, partial braces, or retainers.

When is Orthodontic Treatment NOT Necessary?

In some forms of early development, orthodontists do not recommend treatment, especially for children without any signs of misalignment or tooth structure problems.

You can quickly determine whether or not your child needs orthodontic treatment by visiting Risinger Orthodontics. During your complimentary consultation, our team of experts will determine if your child’s oral growth is sufficient or needs some help from orthodontic treatment.

Get Answers to Your Orthodontic Questions Today!

Understanding why orthodontic treatment is necessary is vital for achieving a smile that brightens everyone’s day. No matter where you are in life’s journey, Risinger Orthodontics has a proven track record of helping children, teens, and adults.

For over 52 years, we have been Glastonbury’s preferred orthodontist. Schedule a complimentary consultation now to learn more about the benefits of orthodontic treatment.

What Are the Different Types of Braces?

risingerortho on September 1, 2022

What Are the Different Types of Braces?

September 1, 2022
risingerortho

As you begin the journey to improve your unique smile, you may wonder, “What are the different types of braces?” and “which is right for me?” With the help of our team at Risinger Orthodontics, deciding what kind of braces fit your individual needs and your lifestyle is easy!

Risinger Orthodontics offers a sophisticated variety of braces, including metal braces, ceramic braces, and removable, nearly invisible aligners. Learn more about the different types of braces!

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional Metal Braces remain a tried and true orthodontic treatment, especially for patients with advanced orthodontic needs. This classic appliance uses a system of guide wires held to the teeth with brackets and rubber bands. Over time the device directs the teeth into optimal placement for smiling, eating, speaking, and enjoying life.

Advancements in braces technology have alleviated the pain once associated with getting braces. Easy adjustments and smaller, smoother brackets are some benefits modern metal braces offer.

Clear Braces

While clear braces use the same method for tooth alignment as traditional metal braces, they are much less visible than metal braces. Patients seeking a healthier smile can skip the metal brackets and silver wires, enjoying a more discreet approach to a healthy smile. While most orthodontists upcharge for clear braces, we keep our braces costs the same so patients can get the care they want!

Discuss proper cleaning methods with our orthodontic experts at Risinger Orthodontics, as the clear elastic ties on these braces may develop stains.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners provide comfort and inconspicuousness for patients seeking braces without bulky brackets. The sleek, clear, removable trays adjust teeth gently over time. Often, clear aligners go unseen and unnoticed.

While clear aligners are sought after by many, not every orthodontist has the skills and experience to get results with aligners. As an Invisalign Diamond Plus provider, Dr. Rick has unmatched insight into how to use aligner technology to restore your smile.

Self-Ligating Braces

These braces look nearly identical to metal braces. They even come with ceramic or metal finishes. Self-ligating braces rely on a system of clips and doors to grip the wires and adjust teeth automatically.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are perhaps the least sought-after. These braces may cause increased friction between the brackets and the tongue. The position of the appliance can affect the patient’s speech.

Which Type Of Braces is Right For Me?

Every form of braces comes with new responsibilities. Deciding which braces fit your orthodontic needs and lifestyle requires the help of an orthodontist.

During your consultation, we will consider factors like hygiene, aesthetics, price, and results and the best treatment plan for you. We work one-on-one with our patients to find the right fit for your lifestyle.

Learn More About The Different Types of Braces Offered at Risinger Orthodontics

At Risinger Orthodontics, we provide healthy smiles that we hope to help you maintain for a lifetime. Making decisions about braces may seem hard, but with our guidance, you’ll be on your way to a smile that you cannot help but show off.

If you are interested in finding out more about braces, call us at 860-633-8321 to set up your complimentary consultation.

How Often Do You Go To The Orthodontist After Braces?

risingerortho on August 10, 2022

How Often Do You Go To The Orthodontist After Braces?

August 10, 2022
risingerortho

Now that your braces are off, you can finally enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile. Of course, you will need to preserve their new alignment.

At Risinger Orthodontics, we follow a post-braces treatment plan that helps you maintain the ideal position of your teeth. This plan typically involves very easy virtual retainer checks.

These small steps in caring for your teeth make all the difference in preserving your upgraded smile.

Post-Braces Treatment and The Importance of Retainers

Dr. Rick recommends wearing a retainer to keep your smile in its ideal position. These custom-fit retainers are shaped to help your new smile stay in place. Wearing it is important because your teeth can often shift back into their pretreatment position without a retainer.

Dr. Rick suggests wearing your retainer as often as possible for 3-6 months (while the teeth are more susceptible to movement). After 3-6 months (with Dr. Rick’s approval), patients can switch to wearing retainers while sleeping.

Be sure to wear your retainer as often as recommended and complete all virtual appointments to keep your teeth gleaming in their new, proper place.

How Many Orthodontist Appointments After Braces?

After completing your braces treatment, you will only need to complete quick virtual retainer checks. These check-ups involve uploading photos of your teeth with your retainer in place. If we identify any issues, we’ll have you come in for an office visit.

Going too long without a retainer causes teeth to relapse into their previous positioning, undoing the hard work of your braces. If you lose your retainer, call Risinger Orthodontics immediately. Our team of helpful orthodontic specialists will assist you in replacing the retainer.

Continue Your Smile Journey With Risinger Orthodontics

Taking care of your teeth is a journey. After finishing your braces treatment, you’ll need to follow a few new routines to care for your teeth. Appliances like retainers let you enjoy the freedom of your new smile while also increasing its longevity.

We are here to help you achieve and keep healthy, straight teeth. Contact our post-braces treatment experts today to learn more about retainers and the best plan for you.

Which is Cheaper: Braces or Invisalign Clear Aligners?

risingerortho on July 25, 2022

Which is Cheaper: Braces or Invisalign Clear Aligners?

July 25, 2022
risingerortho

Orthodontic patients today have more treatment options than ever before to achieve a stunning smile. From traditional braces to ceramic braces and Invisalign®, there are orthodontic options that fit your needs and your lifestyle.

One of the most important aspects of any orthodontic decision is cost. You may be wondering about the cost difference between braces and Invisalign. Let’s look at each system and the variables that determine the cost of treatment.

No matter which treatment you use, it’s always a great idea to invest in the health of your smile! Schedule your complimentary consultation to discover what makes us the best braces and Invisalign provider in Central Connecticut!

Invisalign vs Braces Cost?

The cost of any orthodontic treatment is determined by various factors, including:

Since we love Invisalign and find it works so well, we do not charge different prices for each service. All of our patients can choose Invisalign or braces without paying more. As long as they are candidates for both treatments — which most people are! That way, you can find the option that matches your needs.

Many orthodontists charge more depending on the type of treatment. However, we provide all orthodontic treatments at an affordable rate of $2,500 to $8,500. These estimates do not include insurance, which can substantially reduce the cost of treatment.

During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Rick will examine your teeth and discuss your treatment options, possible timeline, and costs.

We also offer our patients several financing options so you can find the treatment option that is best for you.

Traditional Metal Braces vs. Invisalign

Traditional metal braces provide an efficient, reliable, and effective treatment for patients with crooked or misaligned teeth. Unlike the braces of yesteryear, today’s modern braces are lighter, more discreet, and more comfortable than ever.

More about metal braces:

Risinger Orthodontics is the leading braces provider in Central Connecticut! Schedule your complimentary consultation to learn how braces can help.

Invisalign is a state-of-the-art treatment option that uses virtually invisible plastic aligners. The trays apply gentle pressure to your teeth. You will receive new trays every couple of weeks that move your teeth into position.

Invisalign can treat overbites, underbites, open bites, crowded, misaligned teeth, and more! Plus, Invisalign’s sophisticated technology helps everyone from children, teens, and even adults get a beautiful smile.

More about Invisalign:

Dr. Rick is in the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the U.S. He has helped many people in Central Connecticut achieve fantastic results!

Clear Braces vs. Invisalign

Ceramic braces — sometimes known as clear braces — use brackets, wires, and elastic bands to correct orthodontic issues. Clear braces use tooth-colored ceramic material that blends into the natural color of your teeth.

More about clear braces:

Which Option is Right for Me?

Orthodontic treatment is as unique as the patients who need it. While braces and Invisalign can improve your oral health and help you achieve a healthy, radiant smile, everyone’s needs will differ. Dr. Rick’s top priority is providing you with the best treatment that fits your case, budget, and lifestyle.

During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Rick will:

Regardless of your treatment method, the team at Risinger Orthodontics will support you every step of the way.

We can’t wait to show you why we are the best orthodontic provider in Central Connecticut! Call our office at 860-633-8321 to get started on your journey to a better smile.

Can I Get My Braces Off Early?

risingerortho on July 20, 2022

Can I Get My Braces Off Early?

July 20, 2022
risingerortho

Braces improve the beauty and alignment of your teeth, correcting bite problems and offering you the healthiest smile possible. Innovations in alignment technology allow patients to enjoy a smile more quickly than in the past. However, it’s important to remember that lasting results take time and commitment.

Early braces removal is not usually recommended, but Dr. Rick may recommend early removal if he is certain it won’t compromise your results. Let’s look at how long treatment times typically last and how you can ensure your braces are taken off on time.

Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Rick today and discover why we are the trusted and preferred orthodontist in Central Connecticut.

How Long Are Braces Typically Worn?

Each patient requires a unique orthodontic treatment plan. Treatment plans can range from a few months to a few years.

Factors that can affect the progress of treatment include:

Age - Generally, younger teeth move more quickly. Their gums, bones, and teeth are less fixed than adults, so they shift more freely into their new proper positions. However, Dr. Rick has the skills to create a brilliant smile at any age.
Bite issues - Patients with over or underbites require more extended and detailed treatment to correct their alignment. Cosmetic treatments sometimes only address the front teeth, but more advanced issues require braces on all teeth.
Spaced and rotated teeth - Advanced orthodontic issues such as spaced and rotated teeth may require longer treatments.
Broken brackets and wires - Broken orthodontic gear may result in more prolonged treatment. Taking care of your braces or your aligners is essential to finishing your treatment on time.

With the help of Dr. Rick, you will learn more about the individual needs of your teeth and find the most suitable treatment for your new, glowing smile.

Can You Have Braces Taken Off Early?

As the structures in your mouth adjust to wearing braces, they gradually move into the proper position. Removing your braces too soon or forcing your teeth to move too quickly can cause future problems and additional costs.

Removing your braces or stopping an adjustment too early can cause:

Risinger Orthodontics recommends staying the course with patience for the reward of a winning smile with no orthodontic or dental complications.

How To Ensure You Get Your Braces Off On Time

While we usually do not recommend removing your braces early, we encourage you to take control of your treatment plan by taking care of your braces.

Some of the ways you can keep your treatment time on schedule:

Show up on time for all of your appointments, so Dr. Rick can provide regular, quality care and check in on your progress.
Keep scheduling any dental procedures and cleanings throughout your treatment.
Treat your braces carefully, trying not to break any brackets or wires. Avoid eating hard candies, popcorn and chewing on non-food objects like nails or pens.
Proper dental care including brushing and flossing your teeth regularly — will allow your teeth to reposition accurately, without obstructions.

Contact Central Connecticut's Braces Experts Today

At Risinger Orthodontics, our patients enjoy premium care in a family-friendly environment throughout their treatment. Plus, the added flexibility of online or in-person appointments means it’s never been easier to get the smile you’ve always wanted.

You deserve the perks of a beautiful smile. Call us at (860) 633-8321 or schedule your complimentary consultation now!

How Long Does It Take for Braces to Work?

risingerortho on May 12, 2022

How Long Does It Take for Braces to Work?

May 12, 2022
risingerortho

How long are braces usually on? The truth is, it depends! Your overall treatment time will be dependent on the complexity of your case, the type of orthodontic treatment you use, and many other factors.

Learn more about braces treatment duration and how long you have to wear braces. Schedule an appointment with the experts at Risinger Orthodontics today!

How Long Do You Have to Wear Braces?

Before our patients begin their orthodontic treatment, they often ask us how long they’ll need to wear their braces. Since every patient has different needs, there is no hard and fast rule for the length of your treatment time.

On average, patients with mild to moderate bite malocclusions may wear braces for one or two years, while those with more severe malocclusions may need to wear them for up to 3 years.

During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Rick will do a physical exam and digital imaging to get a sense of your bite. After gathering this information, he will talk to you about your goals, what type of treatment is right for you, and the estimated length of your treatment time.

Braces Treatment Duration

With all the advancements in orthodontic technology in recent years, treatments like Invisalign and braces are designed to align your smile faster. Plus, these treatments are sleeker, more comfortable, and require fewer appointments!

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners are the virtually invisible way to get a radiant smile. The aligners are custom-made to fit comfortably and seamlessly over your teeth. Simply wear them 20-22 hours a day for the best results! Dr. Rick is an Invisalign Diamond Plus Provider, meaning he is in the top 1% of Invisalign providers nationwide.

Mild cases take anywhere from 6 months to a year to correct with Invisalign, while more moderate cases may take longer. Not wearing your aligners consistently can also lengthen your overall treatment time.

Metal and Clear Braces

No matter what your smile needs are, metal and clear braces can address almost any bite malocclusion! Using a system of brackets and wires, these braces are designed with comfort and efficiency in mind.

You can even change the color of your metal braces to fit your fashion sense! Plus, if you’re looking for a subtle treatment, clear braces blend into the natural color of your teeth so you can smile bigger during treatment.

Since braces work around the clock to correct your smile, your overall treatment time may be reduced. Depending on the complexity of your case, braces can take a few months and up to 3 years.

Learn More From the Best Orthodontist in Glastonbury

So, how long are braces usually on? Your treatment time will be dependent upon your goals, your chosen type of orthodontic treatment, the complexity of your case, and more.

The only way to know for sure how long you’ll need to wear braces is by scheduling a consultation with us. We’ll help you choose the most efficient treatment for your needs!

Dr. Rick has many years of experience improving smiles across the greater Glastonbury area. If you’re seeking a more radiant smile, schedule an appointment with us today!

What Not to Eat With Braces

risingerortho on May 12, 2022

What Not to Eat With Braces

May 12, 2022
risingerortho

Many new patients ask us, “What can you eat with braces?” Braces technology has come a long way over the years, but there are still certain foods that you should stay away from during your orthodontic treatment. We recommend avoiding foods that are sticky, crunchy, or chewy because they can damage your braces or teeth.

Let’s take a deeper look into what not to eat with braces and other things to keep in mind during treatment.

At Risinger Orthodontics, we are here to help you get the bright, healthy smile you’ve always wanted. Schedule an in-person or virtual consultation today to learn more!

Why is it Important to Eat Soft Foods with Braces?

The best way to care for your braces and teeth during treatment is to avoid hard or sticky foods.

Certain foods can cause problems, including:

• Damaging your brackets, wires, or bands
• Getting stuck in your wires
• Causing tooth decay
• Cracking your teeth

If a piece of food loosens or breaks your braces, you will need to visit your orthodontist for repairs. This could potentially prolong your treatment time or make the braces less effective. Chewy candies can also stick to your teeth and possibly cause tooth decay or gum disease.

What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?

Knowing what not to eat with braces will help you make better choices for your treatment. Hard and chewy foods may bend wires and brackets, possibly delaying your treatment schedule.

We recommend avoiding some foods, including:

• Hard candies
• Chewy candies
• Nuts
• Chips
• Raw veggies
• Apples (try cutting and peeling your apples before eating them!)
• Jerky
• Bagels
• Pizza crusts

Braces make brushing plaque from your teeth more difficult. With that in mind, it is important to limit your consumption of sugary food and drinks that cause cavities and gum disease. Pigmented food and beverages, such as soda, tea, coffee, curries, and beets, can also stain your teeth.

Regardless of what you eat, you should brush and rinse afterward to keep your braces and teeth clean.

Foods You Can Eat with Braces

There are so many tasty foods to enjoy with braces. Here is a list of some awesome foods you can eat with braces:

• Pastas
• Potatoes
• Boneless meats
• Cooked veggies
• Soft fruits
• Soup
• Rice
• Soft breads
• Eggs
• Pudding

Many of these foods have soft textures. It is crucial to eat enough fiber, iron, calcium, and protein to compensate for cutting back on foods that are staples in your regular diet.

Soft Foods for Braces will Lead to the Best Treatment!

Having braces doesn’t mean you have to settle for less. There are so many good foods and beverages that are perfectly fine to consume with braces. It will all be worth it when your braces come off, and you can show your new smile to the world! We encourage you to keep your eyes on the prize and do what you can to protect your braces and teeth.

For over 55 years, we’ve helped people around Glastonbury, CT perfect their smiles with braces. Schedule an appointment or call us at 860-633-8321 to learn more about what you can eat with braces.