Congratulations on getting braces! You’ve taken the first step in ensuring you have perfect teeth; now it’s time to learn the best ways to take care of your new braces. Braces treatment and proper care are essential for a successful outcome, so we’re here to help you ensure that happens! Read on to learn more about how to clean your braces, what foods to avoid, and other important tips for taking care of your new orthodontic appliance.
1: Brushing and Cleaning
When it comes to taking care of your braces, the most important thing you need to do is brush and clean them properly. Not only will this help your braces treatment progress faster and smoother, but it’ll also help prevent tooth decay and gum disease from setting in. Here are some tips for properly cleaning your braces:
Brushing Technique
You’ll want to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and an orthodontic brush specifically designed for cleaning around braces. Be sure to brush the entire area of your teeth, from the gum lineup to the brackets and wire. A circular motion is the best technique for brushing your braces, and you’ll want to do it gently – don’t brush too hard, as this can damage the brackets or wires. It’s also important to floss around your braces at least once daily.
Specialty Toothpaste
Braces require special care and an extra level of cleaning. There is specialty toothpaste made specifically for people with braces that can help you remove plaque, food particles, and other debris stuck in the wires and brackets of your braces. They’re also formulated to be gentle on your teeth and gums so they won’t damage your braces.
2: Visit Orthodontist Regularly
It’s important to visit your orthodontist regularly for checkups and dental cleanings. They may need to adjust the wires or brackets of your braces and check for any issues or potential problems. During these visits, they’ll also clean your teeth and braces to ensure no plaque build-up.
3: Foods to Avoid
When wearing braces, you need to take extra care regarding the foods you eat. Certain foods can damage your braces or cause tooth decay and gum disease if they’re not removed properly. Here are some foods you’ll want to avoid when wearing braces:
Sticky Foods
Anything sticky or chewy should be avoided, as these types of food can get stuck between the wires and brackets of your braces and cause damage. Avoid things like caramel, gum, taffy, licorice, and even some types of fruit snacks.
Hard Foods
Hard foods like nuts, popcorn kernels, chips, hard candy, and ice can damage your braces. They can cause the wires or brackets to bend or break if bitten into – so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Sugary Foods
Eating too many sugary foods can cause tooth decay and gum disease, so limiting your sugar intake when wearing braces is important. Avoid soda, candy bars, cookies, cake, and other sweets.
Other Tips for Braces Care
In addition to brushing and cleaning your braces regularly and avoiding certain foods, there are a few other tips you should follow when taking care of your orthodontic appliance.
1: Orthodontic Wax
Your orthodontist may provide you with wax to help protect your gums and lips from the sharp edges of your braces. This wax should be applied to any parts of the appliance that bother you throughout the day.
2: Mouthguards
If you play sports or any other physical activity, you should wear a mouthguard over your braces to protect them from damage. You can purchase one at any sporting goods store or ask your orthodontist for a custom-made one.
3: Regular Checkups
Make sure to visit your orthodontist regularly for checkups and adjustments. This will help keep your treatment progressing smoothly and ensure no potential problems with your braces.
Conclusion
Taking care of your braces and keeping them clean is essential for achieving a straight, healthy smile. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, avoid certain foods that can damage your braces, and use wax or mouthguards when necessary. By following these tips and visiting your orthodontist regularly, you’ll be able to get the most out of your treatment and achieve the beautiful smile you’ve been waiting for.
FAQs:
Q: How often should I brush my braces?
A: You should brush your braces after each meal or snack to remove any plaque and food particles. It’s also important to floss around the wires of your braces at le
Q: Are certain foods off-limits when I have braces?
A: Yes, you should avoid sticky and hard foods and sugary snacks and drinks when wearing braces. These can get stuck in the wires of your braces or cause damage to your teeth and gums.
Q: What should I do if a wire or bracket of my braces breaks?
A: If this happens, you should get in touch with your orthodontist immediately. They can repair the issue before it causes any further damage to your teeth or gums.
