Beginning the journey toward a healthy, beautiful and more confident smile with our orthodontist at Orthodontics by the Lake is exciting. Whether you’ve chosen one of several types of braces, or clear aligners, it’s a journey that requires commitment. Realigning the teeth and jaws is a subtle process
that unfolds over time, and we realize our patients need some motivational tips to help them focus on the long-term goals we’re achieving, so here are a few we hope will help.
- Routine maintenance: Consistency is the key to maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment, so it’s critical that you develop and stick to a daily routine of brushing and flossing with braces, or cleaning your clear aligners. That means staying on schedule while away from home for the day or while on vacation.
- Visualize the finish line: Don’t let temporary discomfort or impatience blur the long-term goal of straighter teeth that look terrific, are comfortable when you eat and speak, and are easier to clean.
- Celebrate your progress by taking pictures showing improvements at different stages of treatment. Don’t forget to reward yourself for reaching milestones during treatment — as long as that reward doesn't include hard or sticky foods that can sidetrack your success.
- Supporting cast: You’re not in this alone! Reach out to your friends, family, and our orthodontist for encouragement. If you're facing difficulties, don’t keep them to yourself.
- There’s an app for that: Some dental hygiene apps contain features for orthodontic patients that can help track your progress.
- Seek comfort: If your braces are uncomfortable at first, try using orthodontic wax, or over-the-counter pain relievers recommended by our orthodontist.
Our orthodontist at Orthodontics by the Lake encourages you to view our work together as an investment in your health and well-being, not to mention a huge boost in your self-esteem. It’s an investment that takes time to grow, but will yield beautiful benefits for many years to come! Please contact us if you have any questions or would like an appointment.
By Orthodontics by the Lake
July 30, 2024
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