Simple Rules To Stay Healthy With Braces
It’s not uncommon for patients to experience some level of anxiety when they first learn they will be getting braces. But once you understand all that braces can do for your smile, that anxiety quickly disappears! At Advanced Digital Orthodontics, we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make your orthodontic journey as smooth as possible – that includes taking care of your teeth and gums while you have braces! Here are 10 tips for keeping your mouth healthy when you have braces:
1. Brush, brush, brush!
We can’t stress this enough – brushing your teeth is essential for keeping your mouth healthy, and it’s even more important when you have braces. Brushing your teeth twice a day is the best way to keep your mouth healthy and free of plaque, but it’s even more important when you have braces. Plaque can build up easily around brackets and wires, so be sure to brush carefully and thoroughly. A toothbrush with soft bristles is best for people with braces.
2. Floss daily for a healthy mouth
Floss, floss, floss! Just like brushing, flossing is also essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Be sure to floss at least once a day, using a floss threader or water flosser if necessary.
Flossing is an important part of oral hygiene, and it’s something you should do every day. When you floss, you remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, which helps to keep your mouth healthy. Flossing also helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Flossing is also essential for keeping your mouth healthy, especially when you have braces. Flossing helps remove plaque from areas that your toothbrush can’t reach, such as between your teeth and under your gumline. It’s important to floss carefully and gently so that you don’t damage your gums or break your wires. You may need to use a floss threader to help you floss around your brackets and wires.
3. Rinse with mouthwash to maintain your braces
Rinse your mouth with mouthwash to keep your braces clean and free of bacteria. Mouthwash will also help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Be sure to use a mouthwash that is designed for people with braces.
Mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth, which is especially important when you have braces. Be sure to use a mouthwash that contains fluoride to help prevent cavities. Swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
4. Avoid hard and sticky foods
Hard and sticky foods can be difficult to eat and can cause problems for people with dental problems. They can also be a choking hazard. It is best to avoid hard and sticky foods if possible.
Hard foods can damage your braces and cause pain Be sure to brush at least twice a day, and after every meal if possible. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for people with braces. Hard and sticky foods can damage your braces and cause tooth decay. Some foods to avoid include: hard candy, nuts, popcorn, ice, chewy candy, and gum.
5. Cut up hard fruits and vegetables
When you have braces, you should cut up hard fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces. This will make them easier to eat and less likely to damage your braces.
6. Eat soft foods when possible
If you have braces, it’s best to eat soft foods when possible. This will help prevent damage to your braces and make them more comfortable to wear. Some good soft food options include soups, stews, mashed potatoes, and cooked vegetables. You should avoid hard foods like candy, nuts, and raw vegetables.
7. Use a straw
If you have braces, it’s important to use a straw when you drink beverages. This will help prevent staining and keep your teeth looking their best. Drinking sugary drinks can cause tooth decay. If you do drink them, be sure to use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
8. Avoid chewing on hard objects
Chewing on hard objects can damage your teeth and cause pain. It is best to avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels. If you must chew on something hard, be sure to do so carefully and slowly to avoid damaging your teeth. Chewing on hard objects, such as your nails or a pen, can damage your braces.
9. Don’t smoke when you have braces (or even if you don’t!)
Smoking is bad for your health no matter what, but it can be especially harmful when you have braces. The chemicals in cigarettes can discolor your teeth and make your breath smell terrible. Plus, smoking can make it harder for your braces to work properly. If you want to keep your smile looking great, it’s best to stay away from cigarettes altogether. Smoking can discolor your teeth and damage your braces.
10. See your orthodontist regularly
It is important to see your orthodontist regularly when you have braces. This is because they can check to make sure that your braces are working properly and that your teeth are moving in the right direction. They can also adjust your braces if necessary. Be sure to see your orthodontist for regular check-ups and adjustments. This will ensure that your braces are working properly and that your teeth and gums are healthy.
Conclusion
Following these tips will help you keep your mouth healthy while you have braces. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist.