Getting braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. But to ensure the best results, it’s important to take good care of them throughout your treatment. Proper maintenance helps keep your teeth and gums healthy, prevents damage to your braces, and can even speed up your treatment time.
At Bright Braces, we want to make your orthodontic journey as smooth as possible. This guide will walk you through the best ways to care for your braces, from brushing techniques to avoiding common problems.
Brushing and Flossing With Braces
Braces create small spaces where food and plaque can build up, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. A good oral hygiene routine is essential.
Brushing Tips
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush to clean around brackets and wires.
Angle the brush at 45 degrees to reach under the brackets.
Brush at least twice a day, but ideally after every meal.
Use fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
Flossing Tips
Use orthodontic floss threaders or a water flosser to clean between teeth and under wires.
Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles.
Be gentle to avoid damaging the wires or irritating your gums.
Adding an antimicrobial mouthwash to your routine can also help reduce bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
Foods to Avoid With Braces
Certain foods can damage braces, leading to broken brackets or bent wires that may delay treatment. Avoid:
Hard foods like popcorn, nuts, and ice
Sticky foods like caramel, gum, and chewy candies
Crunchy foods like chips and hard bread crusts
Sugary foods and drinks that can increase the risk of cavities
Cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing with your back teeth can help prevent unnecessary damage.
Managing Discomfort and Soreness
It’s common to experience some soreness after getting braces or after adjustments. To ease discomfort:
Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
Rinse with warm salt water to reduce irritation.
Apply orthodontic wax to brackets or wires that cause discomfort.
If pain persists or a wire is poking your cheek, contact your orthodontist for an adjustment.
Protecting Your Braces During Sports
If you play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect your braces and teeth from injury. Ask your orthodontist about getting a custom-fit mouthguard for the best protection.
What to Do if Your Braces Break
Even with proper care, braces can sometimes break. If this happens:
If a wire is poking, use orthodontic wax or a clean pencil eraser to push it back into place.
If a bracket comes loose, leave it in place and avoid touching it until your orthodontist can fix it.
If a rubber band or elastic comes off, do not attempt to replace it yourself.
Call your orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment.
Retainer Care After Braces
Once your braces come off, wearing a retainer is crucial to keep your teeth in their new position. To care for your retainer:
Clean it daily with a toothbrush and lukewarm water.
Avoid soaking it in hot water, which can warp the material.
Store it in its case when not in use to prevent loss or damage.
Failing to wear your retainer as instructed may cause your teeth to shift back over time.
Schedule a Consultation for Expert Orthodontic Care
Taking care of your braces ensures that your treatment stays on track and your teeth remain healthy. If you have any concerns or need an adjustment, Bright Braces is here to help.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about orthodontic care and how to get the best results from your treatment.
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