Wearing braces is an important step toward achieving a beautifully aligned smile, but it comes with a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to dental hygiene. Since braces can trap food particles and make it difficult to clean your teeth thoroughly, maintaining a specialised oral care routine is crucial to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues during your orthodontic treatment. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your teeth while wearing braces.
Brush Thoroughly (But Gently)
Brushing your teeth is a critical step in maintaining oral hygiene, and it becomes even more essential with braces. Since food particles can get stuck between the brackets and wires, it’s important to brush your teeth after every meal.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Opt for a soft-bristled brush or an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head to effectively clean around the brackets and wires without damaging your gums.
- Angle your brush: When brushing, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean the areas above and below the brackets.
- Be gentle: While thorough cleaning is necessary, brushing too hard can irritate your gums and potentially damage the braces themselves.
Don’t Forget to Floss
Flossing can be tricky with braces, but it’s essential for cleaning between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Specialised flossing tools, like floss threaders or orthodontic floss, are designed to help you navigate around the braces.
- Use a floss threader: This is a small, flexible tool that allows you to thread floss underneath the wires of your braces so you can reach between your teeth.
- Interdental brushes: Alternatively, interdental brushes (small, specialised brushes designed to clean between teeth) are another great option for removing plaque buildup around brackets and wires.
Rinse with an Antibacterial Mouthwash
Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of gum disease, especially since braces create more opportunities for bacteria to accumulate. Opt for a fluoride-based rinse to further protect against cavities and strengthen your enamel.
- Swish after meals: If you don’t have time to brush, rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash can help remove food particles stuck in your braces.
Avoid Sticky, Sugary, and Hard Foods
Certain foods can cause damage to your braces and increase the risk of cavities. Sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum can get stuck in the brackets, while hard foods like nuts and raw carrots can break or loosen the wires. Sugary snacks should also be limited as they can promote tooth decay around the brackets.
- Opt for softer foods: Instead of biting into an apple, cut it into slices. Swap hard candies for softer, sugar-free alternatives.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
While your orthodontist will monitor the progress of your braces, it’s equally important to visit your general dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist will ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. In fact, regular visits to a general dentist in Brunswick can help identify any potential dental issues early, preventing complications down the line.
Use Orthodontic Wax
Braces can sometimes cause discomfort, especially when wires or brackets rub against the inside of your mouth. Orthodontic wax can be applied to the brackets to create a protective barrier, helping to prevent irritation and sores.
- Carry wax with you: Keep some orthodontic wax on hand for emergencies, particularly in the early stages of wearing braces when your mouth is still adjusting.
Stay Committed to Your Routine
Maintaining proper dental hygiene can feel time-consuming, but it’s crucial to stick with your routine. Poor oral hygiene can lead to prolonged treatment times or unsatisfactory results once the braces come off. With regular care, you’ll be rewarded with a healthy, straight smile once your braces are removed.
Taking care of your teeth with braces requires patience and diligence, but by following these tips, you can ensure your teeth remain healthy throughout your orthodontic journey. For more information on keeping your teeth healthy while wearing braces or to book a check-up, contact your local dental experts today.
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