Braces can change your life by giving you a beautiful, healthy smile. But they also require more attention and care. Braces can cause gum disease, cavities, and plaque accumulation if you don’t practice good dental hygiene.
Whether you are just starting your orthodontic journey or have had braces for a while, here are five essential tips to help you take the best care of your teeth.
1. Brush and Floss Thoroughly
Braces create numerous small spaces where food particles and plaque can easily get trapped. To keep your teeth clean, brushing after every meal is crucial. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and gently clean around the brackets and wires.
Flossing can be tricky, but it is just as important. Consider using a floss threader, orthodontic floss, or a water flosser to make the process easier and more effective. Taking these steps consistently helps prevent tooth decay and gum inflammation throughout your treatment.
2. Choose Braces-Friendly Foods
How well you take care of your braces and general oral health is greatly influenced by your diet. Popcorn, gum, almonds, and caramel are examples of hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage wires and remove brackets. Choose soft foods like bananas, steamed veggies, spaghetti, and yogurt instead.
Cut harder foods like apples or carrots into small, bite-sized pieces. Making mindful food choices not only protects your braces but also reduces the risk of tooth damage and emergency visits to the orthodontist.
3. Follow Your Ortho’s Instructions Carefully
Your orthodontist is your guide throughout your braces journey. Whether it is wearing rubber bands, using retainers, or following specific hygiene instructions, adhering to their advice is essential for achieving the best results.
Ignoring guidance from your ortho provider can slow down your progress or lead to complications. Do not hesitate to ask questions during appointments to understand your treatment better. The more informed you are, the smoother your experience will be.
4. Visit Your General Dentist Regularly
While your orthodontist focuses on aligning your teeth, your general dentist monitors your overall oral health. It is important to keep up with routine check-ups and professional cleanings every six months—or more frequently if recommended.
Dental care providers can detect early signs of cavities, gum problems, or decalcification that might be hidden by braces. Regular dental visits ensure your teeth remain healthy underneath the hardware, supporting a strong foundation for your future smile.
5. Protect Your Mouth During Physical Activities
Wearing a mouthguard is crucial if you participate in vigorous activities or play contact sports. If you are struck in the face, braces might result in painful cuts or injuries to the inside of your cheeks and lips.
A custom orthodontic mouthguard offers the best protection as it is designed to fit over your braces comfortably. Do not skip this precaution—it can save you from painful injuries and costly repairs to your braces.
Taking care of your teeth with braces might seem challenging at first, but with a little effort and discipline, you can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile during and after treatment.
