When the chilly weather hits, it is important to remember that your orthodontic treatment requires consistent care. The winter months can mean specific challenges for people with braces. Taking a few extra precautions can help your treatment stay on track and keep you comfortable throughout the season.
Dealing with Tooth Sensitivity
Cold weather can sometimes heighten tooth sensitivity, an issue that can already be exacerbated by orthodontic adjustment. The metal components of your braces can conduct cold, and breathing in brisk air can cause a sharp, temporary discomfort in your teeth.
To minimize this uncomfortable feeling, make it a point to try breathing through your nose when you are outdoors this winter. Nose breathing warms the air before it reaches your mouth. If you are still having trouble, a toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth can also provide relief by strengthening enamel and blocking pain signals that contribute to sensitivity.
Protecting Your Lips from the Cold
The dry, cold air outside and artificially heated air inside both contribute to moisture loss. While chapped lips are a common problem for everyone in the winter, they can be particularly difficult when you have braces. The brackets and wires can irritate already dry and cracked lips, making the condition worse.
Apply a lip balm with SPF regularly, even on cloudy days, as sun exposure can still occur in winter. Look for moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or vitamin E. Drinking plenty of water also helps to hydrate your body from the inside out, which benefits your skin and lips.
Holiday Foods and Other Winter Treats
Many seasonal treats are hard, sticky, or chewy, which can be bad news for orthodontic patients. Foods like candy canes, peanut brittle, and caramel should be avoided while you have braces. Biting into these types of foods can bend wires or even break a bracket.
Fortunately, there are many braces-friendly alternatives that are just as festive and delicious for you to enjoy.
- Soft Baked Goods: Cookies, brownies, and cakes are generally safe, as long as they do not contain hard nuts, toffee bits, or other hard ingredients.
- Hot Chocolate: This classic winter drink is a perfect warm-up treat. Just be sure to swish with water afterward to rinse away sugar.
- Pudding and Mousse: Smooth, creamy desserts are an excellent choice that will not harm your braces.
- Soft Fruits: Fruits like bananas and citrus are fine, but avoid biting directly into hard fruits like apples. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces instead.
Protecting Your Smile During Winter Sports
Activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are popular during the winter, but they come with a risk of falls and collisions. An impact to the mouth can be more severe when you have braces, potentially causing damage to your lips, cheeks, and gums, as well as to the braces themselves.
Consider a mouthguard during any sport where there is a risk of contact or falling. An orthodontic mouthguard is specifically designed to fit over brackets and wires.
Maintaining Your Regular Appointments
Your scheduled appointments are an invaluable part of your treatment plan. These check-ups are also an opportunity for us to make adjustments, monitor your oral health, check for any potential issues with your braces, and answer any questions you may have. Skipping an appointment can delay your progress and extend your overall treatment time.
With the hustle and bustle of the season, it can be easy to let your oral hygiene routine slide. But by following these winter braces tips, you can keep your treatment comfortably on track. If you experience any issues with your braces or have any concerns, do not hesitate to contact our office.
