Thanksgiving is a time of family, friends, and food. If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, however, it can be stressful to have such a busy and involved holiday. After a thorough exam, your dentist will develop a treatment plan to address your needs and concerns. Regardless of your personal treatment plan, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the holiday with braces or aligners.

Initially, you may notice some discomfort due to orthodontic adjustments and pressure from the brackets on your teeth. To help you manage this minor discomfort, eat soft foods for the first several days after your adjustment appointment. Avoid chewing hard foods such as nuts, candies, and corn on the cob during this time as well. This will also help you adjust to your new braces as you get used to eating with them.

You may also be concerned about the appearance of your smile as you eat your favorite Thanksgiving treats. To help maximize your results and minimize any discomfort during your holiday meal, wear your Invisalign aligners as much as possible throughout the day instead of removing them to eat and clean your teeth. This will help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy throughout your treatment. You can remove your aligners to enjoy your meal. You can also take your aligners out for a few minutes each time you eat to rinse your mouth after enjoying each course. When you brush your teeth, use the gentle motion of a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to help clean the areas of your aligners that are not directly touching your teeth.

In addition, remember to schedule your regular checkups and cleanings throughout the month of November to keep your oral health on track during your treatment with braces or aligners. Continue to brush and floss daily. Brushing twice a day helps reduce the risk of tooth decay. You should also continue to visit your dentist for routine cleanings and exams every six months as you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. These appointments can help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy throughout your entire treatment plan.

To learn more about orthodontic treatment options, visit our Daniel Tebbi, D.M.D. office at 16661 Ventura Blvd Ste 620, Encino, CA 91436, which is quite close to Sherman Oaks 91403, 91495, 91423, Studio City 91604, Van Nuys 91436, 91411, and Reseda 91335. You can also reach us at (818) 789-2034.