Let us be the first to say Congratulations on your new braces and welcome to the MHO Family! You’ve just begun a process that will change your smile forever!
Since you were probably a little preoccupied when you left our office and may not have remembered everything we said, here are a few things you should know about what to expect, what foods to avoid, and how to take care of your braces.
You’re probably going to be a little sore for the first few days while your teeth, gums, cheeks, and lips get used to the braces. Don’t worry though, this is completely normal. Taking Advil or Tylenol as directed will help with any soreness. If you do have any questions about this, please don’t hesitate to call us!
Warm salt water rinses a few times a day will help with any cheek biting sores or general irritation. You can also take a pinch of the wax we gave you and place it directly on any part of the bracket that feels rough or sharp.
While you are wearing your braces, you should use a fork and knife and cut up everything. Foods like ribs, corn on the cob, and apples are okay, but please be sure to cut them up first. Stay away from any sticky, gooey foods and hard breads too. And be sure to avoid what Dr. Hansen likes to call the -itos family. This means no Cheetos, Doritos, Fritos, and Tostitos (Nachos). For more information please read the take home packet we gave you in your MHO Folder.
There are 1440 minutes in every day, and we need you to spend just 6 of them brushing: 2 after breakfast, 2 after lunch, and 2 before bed. We recommend using an electric toothbrush over a manual one when you can. When brushing, please look in the mirror and make sure you’re focusing not just on the teeth, but the gums too. Your gums will get swollen and puffy if you are not paying close enough attention to that area. Rinsing with Listerine after you brush will help kill the bacteria that cause the gum disease, gingivitis, and using a fluoride rinse at night before bed is a great way to help prevent cavities. And don’t forget to see your dentist regularly for your scheduled checkups and cleanings while you are in braces. You can also visit the Brushing and Flossing page on our website at www.etxortho.com/brushing-and-flossing for more info.
You have made a wonderful decision to undergo orthodontic treatment and we are so grateful you’ve chosen us to transform your smile. If you need anything at all between now and your next visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! 903-212-7737 or email info@etxortho.com
Thank you again and we will see you soon!
We would be happy to help answer any questions you may have about orthodontic treatment. If you would like to discover how Dr. Spencer Mack and Dr. Andrew Hansen can help you get the smile you have always wanted with metal braces, clear braces, or invisalign please contact us and request a free consultation to learn more about our affordable braces and invisalign clear aligners. We’re conveniently located in Longview, TX right by Longview Regional Hospital and are just a quick drive from Kilgore, Marshall, Carthage, Henderson, Mount Pleasant, and Gilmer.
