When you’ve just gotten braces, it can feel like a big adjustment not only to your smile but to your daily routine as well. The brackets and wires require special attention, but don’t let that worry you too much. Taking care of your teeth with braces is straightforward once you get the hang of it, and the payoff—a stunning, healthy smile—is absolutely worth it. So, how exactly do you maintain your dental health with braces? Let’s walk you through the essentials.
1. Finding a Trusted Dentist for Braces Care
First things first, you’ll want to make sure you’re in good hands. Regular check-ups with a trusted dentist are key to keeping those teeth in top shape, especially when you’re dealing with orthodontic work like braces. You’ve probably heard about Aurora’s top dental care providers, who are well-known for their expertise and patient-first approach. A regular visit will help catch any potential issues early on and keep your braces journey on track.
2. Daily Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Braces add some nooks and crannies to your teeth that require extra attention. Here’s a step-by-step routine to keep that smile shining:
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Choose the Right Toothbrush: Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush or a specialized orthodontic toothbrush designed for use with braces. Soft bristles are gentle on both your braces and your gums, reducing the risk of irritation or damage.
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Brushing Basics: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the surface of your teeth and braces. Brush gently but thoroughly, using small circular motions to clean around and above the brackets. Pay close attention to the areas between the brackets and the gumline, where food particles and plaque tend to accumulate. Don’t forget to brush the back surfaces of your teeth and the chewing surfaces to ensure comprehensive cleaning.
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Flossing: Flossing with braces requires a bit of patience and practice, but it’s essential for maintaining healthy gums and preventing tooth decay. Use a floss threader or an orthodontic flosser to thread dental floss under the wires and between the teeth. Gently slide the floss up and down along the sides of each tooth, making sure to reach the gumline. Repeat this process for each tooth, taking care to clean between all the teeth, including those with braces. Consider using a water flosser or interdental brushes as additional tools to help clean around braces and wires.
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Rinse and Repeat: After brushing and flossing, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or an antimicrobial mouthwash to remove any remaining debris and bacteria. Repeat this oral hygiene routine at least twice a day, preferably after meals and before bedtime, to keep your teeth and braces clean and free from plaque buildup.
Orthodontics plays a special role in adjusting and perfecting your smile’s alignment. Smile correction with orthodontics is not just about aesthetics; it’s about improving dental function and health. An orthodontist can give you the guidance you need to navigate your journey with braces successfully.
3. Adapting Your Diet
Adapting your diet is crucial when you have braces to prevent damage and maintain good oral health. Here are some tips to help you make dietary adjustments:
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Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: Hard candies, popcorn, nuts, and other hard or crunchy foods can damage your braces or get stuck between the wires and brackets. Avoid these foods to prevent orthodontic emergencies and minimize the risk of breaking your braces.
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Opt for Softer Foods: Choose softer foods that are easier to chew and won’t damage your braces. Examples include cooked vegetables, soft fruits, pasta, yogurt, and tender meats. These foods are less likely to cause discomfort or get caught in your braces.
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Limit Sugary and Acidic Drinks: Sugary and acidic drinks, such as soda, sports drinks, and fruit juices, can increase your risk of cavities and enamel erosion. Instead, make water your beverage of choice to stay hydrated and maintain optimal oral health. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your mouth, reducing the risk of dental issues.
4. Protecting Your Braces and Teeth from Damage
If you’re an athlete or you enjoy active hobbies, a mouthguard is a must to shield your braces and teeth. Even something as simple as biting down on a pencil can cause unexpected damage to your braces, so be mindful of habits that might put your orthodontic work at risk.
5. Addressing Soreness and Discomfort
Braces can make your mouth feel a bit sore, especially after an adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers, orthodontic wax, and warm salt water rinses can help ease discomfort. If soreness persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist.
6. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups should be noticed. Your dentist can spot problem areas that might need a little extra attention and can provide professional cleanings that keep tartar and plaque at bay. With braces, these check-ups become even more crucial.
While braces are working on the alignment of your teeth, you might also be considering cosmetic improvements such as whitening or contouring. When it comes to those treatments, finding the right provider is essential. A visit to your Aurora cosmetic dental office can help you plan for cosmetic procedures that complement your orthodontic treatment and result in a dazzling smile.
7. Removing Bad Habits
Braces require a commitment to give up certain habits that could jeopardize your oral health. Nail-biting, chewing on ice, and smoking should all be avoided. Each of these habits can introduce bacteria to your mouth, stain teeth, or damage your braces.
8. Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax can be a lifesaver when you have braces. If you’re experiencing irritation from wires or brackets, a small amount of wax can provide a smooth barrier and give your mouth some relief.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your dental health with braces involves a combination of proper daily care, regular dental visits, a braces-friendly diet, and a commitment to forgo potentially damaging habits. With patience and perseverance, you’ll master the art of braces care and come out with a smile that’s ready to take on the world.
