Braces align teeth and improve your bite, but they require special care to maintain healthy gums and teeth while wearing them. If you or your child wear dental braces in Surrey, you will have to brush your teeth with the correct technique to avoid problems like gum disease and tooth decay. The following are the top 10 tips for taking care of braces to achieve a healthy smile.
- Brush Your Teeth Regularly: The one most crucial recommendation in maintaining your braces in fantastic shape is to brush your teeth at least twice daily. Gently brush away the food particles and plaque around your braces. Brush both sides of the wires and brackets with a soft toothbrush.
- Floss Daily: Brushing alone is not enough! Oral care with braces also includes flossing. Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss, which is designed to help you clean between teeth and around the braces. Flossing removes the plaque and food particles that brushes might miss. Make it a habit to floss every day.
- Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Antimicrobial mouthwash could be beneficial to your oral hygiene routine. Using mouthwash to rinse can help to eliminate the bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease. Make sure to choose alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid dry mouth. Include the use of mouthwash every day after brushing and flossing.
- Eat the Right Foods: Certain foods can damage your braces and make it hard to clean your teeth. Avoid the intake of hard foods like nuts and hard candies, chewy items like caramel, and sticky foods like gummy bears. Instead, choose softer foods such as yogurt, pasta, and cooked vegetables that are easier to chew.
- Stay Away from Sugary Drinks: Sugar can lead to tooth decay, especially when you have braces. Try to limit intake of sugary drinks like sodas and sweet juices. Instead, opt for water or milk. Drinking water after meals can help wash away food particles stuck in your braces.
- Keep Your Appointment Schedule: Regular dental check-ups with a professional are necessary to maintain your braces effectively. Your dentist will adjust your braces and monitor your progress. Skipping appointments can lead to delays in treatment, so make sure to schedule them as recommended.
- Use Orthodontic Wax: If your braces are irritating your cheeks or gums, ask your professional for orthodontic wax. Applying this wax to any parts of your brackets or wires that are causing discomfort can relieve irritation. Just remember to remove it when you eat!
- Avoiding Bad Habits: Some habits can damage your braces. Avoid biting your nails, chewing on pencils, or using your teeth to open packages. These habits can put pressure on your braces and lead to breakage or misalignment.
- Educate Yourself About Your Braces: Understanding how braces work can help you take care of them. Your dentist can explain the mechanics behind your specific type of braces. The more you know, the better you can care for them.
- Stay Positive and Patient: Finally, remember that having braces is a temporary situation. You will have a beautiful smile at the end of your treatment. Staying positive can help you remain committed to your braces’ care routine.
By following these braces maintenance tips, you will ensure a healthy and bright smile during your treatment. Remember, taking care of your braces is not just about looking good; it also helps keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Get the Smile You Deserve with Braces Today!
If you want a straighter, healthier smile, we’re here to help! At Dentists of Chimney Heights, our team of dentist near you provides expert orthodontic care, including braces, to align your teeth and improve your bite. We focus on comfort and effective results, making the process as smooth as possible for you.
Don’t wait to get the smile you’ve always wanted—schedule your consultation today!