Orthodontic treatment can help you achieve your smile goals, since various orthodontic treatments are used to correct a variety of dental problems. According to the ADA, about 10 million people, 1.4 million of which are teens, use Invisalign to correct their smiles. How can you prepare for orthodontic treatment? Here are three easy steps to take to be ready for this process.

1. Educate Yourself on the Treatment

The quickest way to reduce anxiety about any dental procedure, including orthodontics, is to educate yourself about what to expect from the treatment. Before your appointment, be sure to ask your orthodontist plenty of questions. Watch online videos from a credible source or read online articles about the treatment. The more you know about what to expect, the more comfortable you will be with the treatment. Write down any questions you can’t find answers to and bring the questions with you to your appointment for your orthodontist to answer.

2. Prepare Your Pantry and Fridge

If your treatment is for traditional metal braces, you must prepare your pantry and fridge. There are certain foods you will need to avoid. Any type of sticky food that is hard to chew should be avoided when you have metal braces. Your mouth may be sore for a few days after the treatment so having soft, easy-to-chew foods at home will make your transition easier. Check with your orthodontist for recommendations.

3. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Leading up to your appointment with the orthodontist, you’ll need to up your oral hygiene game. You don’t want to develop cavities while you’re waiting to start your orthodontic treatment. Brushing, rinsing, and flossing at least twice a day, and reducing the sugary snacks you consume can help keep your oral health in great shape.

On the day of your appointment, eat before you leave the house, and be sure to brush and floss on your way out the door. When you leave your appointment, you’ll leave with instructions on how to do your part to ensure the success of the treatment. Follow the directions your orthodontist provides and before you know it, you’ll have the smile you have always wanted. Orthodontic treatments can improve any smile so call us today to learn more about how to prepare for any of our procedures!