Braces are a significant investment in your oral health and appearance, but maintaining that investment requires diligent care between orthodontic appointments. Proper hygiene and maintenance practices are crucial to ensuring your braces function effectively and to preventing complications such as cavities, gum disease, or prolonged treatment times.
Here are some best practices for taking care of your teeth while wearing braces.
1. Brush regularly and properly
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is essential, but with braces, you should aim to brush after every meal and snack. Food particles can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. Make sure to clean every surface of your teeth as well as the area surrounding your braces by angling your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gums and brushing in a gentle circular motion. An electric toothbrush with a small head can also be particularly effective in reaching around brackets and wires.
While you may be looking forward to teeth whitening once your braces are removed, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial to avoid tooth discolouration and ensure a bright smile post-treatment.
2. Floss daily
Flossing is essential to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline, areas that cannot be reached by just brushing. With braces, flossing can be more challenging, but tools like floss threaders or orthodontic floss can make it easier.
These tools help you guide the floss under the main wire of your braces so you can effectively clean between your teeth. It’s important to follow the proper way of flossing to ensure you’re thoroughly cleaning all areas. Aim to floss at least once a day, ideally before bedtime.
3. Use interdental brushes
Interdental brushes are small brushes designed to clean between your teeth and around your braces. They can be particularly useful for removing debris and plaque that your toothbrush might miss. Use them gently to avoid damaging your braces or gums.
4. Rinse with mouthwash
A fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of cavities. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Mouthwash can also help reach areas that brushing and flossing might miss.
5. Avoid certain foods
Some foods can damage your braces or increase your risk of cavities. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods such as nuts, popcorn, caramel, gum, and hard candy. These can break brackets or wires and cause pain. Additionally, limit sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to dental decay and buildup of cariogenic plaque.
6. Wear a mouthguard
If you play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard is crucial to protect your braces and your mouth from injury. Your orthodontist can provide you with a custom mouthguard that fits over your braces and protects your teeth.
7. Handle emergencies properly
Despite your best efforts, emergencies can still happen. If a wire breaks or a bracket becomes loose, contact your orthodontist immediately. In the meantime, use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges and prevent them from damaging your mouth. Avoid trying to fix the braces yourself if you are unsure, as it may cause further damage.
8. Regularly check for issues
Take a few minutes each day to inspect your braces and teeth for any signs of damage or issues. Look for broken wires, loose brackets, or any unusual changes in your mouth. Early detection of problems can prevent them from becoming more serious and prolonging your treatment.
9. Maintain a healthy diet
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for overall oral health. Foods high in calcium, like tofu, leafy greens, and almonds, can help strengthen your teeth. Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables to provide your body with the necessary nutrients to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
10. Attend all scheduled appointments
Finally, it’s crucial to attend all your scheduled orthodontic appointments. Your orthodontist will make necessary adjustments to your braces and monitor your progress. Regular visits ensure that any issues are caught early and that your treatment stays on track.
Conclusion
Taking care of your teeth between orthodontic appointments requires dedication and the right techniques. By following these best practices, you can be like an expert and ensure that your braces treatment progresses smoothly and effectively, leading to a healthier and more beautiful smile.
For more personalised advice and comprehensive orthodontic care, visit BigSmile Dental Clinic. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams while ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout your braces journey.
Location
10 Sinaran Drive, #11-18
Novena Medical Centre
Singapore 307506