How to Care for Braces.
Braces require a few extra steps in your daily oral hygiene routine, but those efforts are well worth it. Consistent cleaning habits, avoiding certain foods, and attending regular orthodontic appointments are key to keeping your braces in excellent condition and your smile healthy throughout treatment.
Tips for Cleaning Braces
Maintaining good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment protects your teeth from cavities, staining, and gum problems. Follow these tips for a successful braces experience:
Brushing
Brush at least twice a day, ideally after every meal, to remove food particles trapped around brackets and wires. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and angle it toward the gumline and brackets to clean thoroughly.
Flossing
Floss daily using floss threaders (often provided by your orthodontist) or a water flosser to clean between teeth and underneath the wires.
Cleaning Brackets and Wires
An interdental brush can help reach tight areas around brackets and under wires where food and plaque can build up.
Attending Regular Dental Appointments
Continue visiting your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams. Regular checkups help ensure your teeth stay healthy during orthodontic treatment.
Food and Habits to Avoid
Certain foods and habits can damage braces or increase your risk of tooth decay. While wearing braces, avoid:
Hard foods: Nuts, ice, popcorn
Sticky foods: Taffy, gum, caramel
Sugary foods and drinks: Candy, soda
Hard vegetables and fruits: Apples, raw carrots
You should also avoid:
Chewing on hard items like pens and ice
Using tobacco products
Managing Problems With Braces
Some common issues with braces include sharp wires, soreness, broken brackets or wires, and mouth injuries. These tips can help:
Sharp wires: If wires are poking into your lips or cheeks, try orthodontic wax.
Soreness: When you first get your braces, or when they are adjusted or tightened, there may be some soreness. Eat soft foods and take over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
Broken pieces: If the wire or brackets break, contact your orthodontist's office as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment.
Mouth injuries: Wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports.
Conclusion
By keeping braces clean and free of debris, being careful with what you eat, and staying on top of any problems that arise, you can keep your mouth healthy while you wear braces.
For more tips on caring for braces, contact Oasis Kids Dental and Orthodontics today. Keep your or your child’s teeth healthy by following the tips above and by attending regular appointments.