Tips for How to Care for Your Braces
12th October 2023
Having braces is a significant commitment. It’s essential to take proper care of your braces to ensure the success of your treatment. This blog post will provide tips and guidelines on caring for your braces. By following these recommendations, you can ensure that your orthodontic journey is smooth and successful.
- Oral Hygiene:
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial when you have braces. Food particles and plaque buildup can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires, leading to tooth decay and gum problems. Follow these steps to keep your braces clean:
- Brushing: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice daily. Pay special attention to brushing around the brackets and wires using gentle circular motions. Consider using an interdental brush or a proxy brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Flossing: Regular flossing is essential to remove plaque and food debris between the teeth and the gumline. Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate the wires and brackets. Alternatively, you can use a water flosser or an interdental brush to clean between the braces.
- Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial to help control plaque and keep your breath fresh. Look for a mouthwash that is suitable for orthodontic patients.
2. Diet and Eating Habits: Certain foods can get stuck or damage your braces, increasing the risk of oral health issues. Follow these dietary guidelines to protect your braces:
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods: Avoid sticky candies, chewing gum, caramel, taffy, and similar foods that can adhere to your braces and be difficult to remove.
- Limit hard and crunchy foods: Nuts, popcorn, ice, and hard candies can break or dislodge the brackets or wires. Cut hard fruits and vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Minimise sugary and acidic foods: Excessive consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages can lead to tooth decay and enamel erosion. Limit your intake of soda, sports drinks, sweets, and acidic fruits.
- Be mindful of your eating habits: Take small bites and chew slowly to minimise the pressure on your braces. Avoid biting into complex objects like pens or pencils.
3. Orthodontic Appointments:
Regular visits to your orthodontist are crucial for the success of your treatment. Follow these recommendations regarding orthodontic appointments:
- Attend all scheduled appointments: Regular check-ups allow your orthodontist to monitor your treatment progress and make any necessary adjustments.
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions: Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how to care for your braces and what to expect during the treatment. Follow their advice diligently.
- Communicate any concerns: If you experience discomfort, pain, or issues with your braces, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist. They are there to help and address any concerns.
4. Sports and Physical Activities:
Protecting your braces from potential damage is essential if you participate in sports or physical activities. Consider the following precautions:
- Wear a mouthguard: Use a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth from injury during sports. Your orthodontist can provide you with the appropriate mouthguard.
- Use a protective cover: If you play a contact sport, consider using a protective cover over your braces to minimise the risk of damage caused by impact.
- Be cautious during activities: Avoid activities that pose a high risk of injury to your face or mouth. If you get hit in the mouth, check your braces for damage and contact your orthodontist.
Conclusion
Caring for your braces is essential to achieve the results. Following the tips in this blog can ensure your braces stay clean, intact, and effective throughout your journey. Remember to practise excellent oral hygiene, follow dietary guidelines, attend regular orthodontic appointments, and protect your braces during physical activities.
If you have any concerns or questions about braces, don’t hesitate to contact our orthodontist in Birmingham for personalised advice and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
A: Brushing your teeth at least twice daily is recommended, just like you would without braces. However, with braces, paying extra attention to brushing around the brackets and wires is vital to remove any food particles or plaque buildup.
Q: Can I use an electric toothbrush with braces?
A: Yes, you can use an electric toothbrush with braces. Some electric toothbrushes have specific orthodontic brush heads designed to clean around braces. Consult with our orthodontist to determine the type of toothbrush.
Q: Are there any special techniques for flossing with braces?
A: Flossing with braces can be challenging but crucial for maintaining oral health. You can use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate between the wires and brackets. Alternatively, you can use a water flosser or an interdental brush to clean between the braces. Your orthodontist can demonstrate the proper flossing technique and recommend the most suitable tools.
Q: Will braces affect my speech?
A: Initially, you may experience slight changes in your speech when you first get braces. These changes are standard as your tongue and mouth adjust to the presence of the braces. With time, your speech will typically return to normal as you become accustomed to speaking with braces. If you continue to experience difficulties, consult your orthodontist for guidance.
Q: Can I still participate in orthodontic treatment if I have gum disease?
A: It’s essential to address any pre-existing oral health issues, such as gum disease, before starting orthodontic treatment. Gum disease can complicate the orthodontic process and affect the success of your treatment. Your orthodontist will evaluate your oral health and recommend appropriate remedies to ensure a healthy foundation for your braces.
Q: What should I do if a bracket or wire breaks loose?
A: If a bracket becomes loose or a wire breaks, it’s essential to contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. They will advise you on the necessary steps and schedule a repair appointment. Avoid fixing the issue yourself, as this can lead to further complications or delays in your treatment progress.
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