Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for everyone, but it becomes even more essential when you’re wearing braces. Whether they’re traditional metal, ceramic, or clear aligners, keeping your braces clean ensures that your teeth remain healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Poor hygiene can lead to cavities, gum disease, and prolonged treatment times. At Wagner Orthodontics, we understand the challenges that come with braces, which is why we’re here to guide you with our expert tips for braces.
10 Essential Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces
Braces are an investment in your future smile, but achieving the best results requires a commitment to maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Keeping your teeth and braces clean not only ensures the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment but also helps prevent common dental issues such as plaque buildup, cavities, and gum inflammation.
With that being said, here are 10 essential oral health tips while wearing braces. With a little extra effort and attention to detail, you can keep your teeth in great shape throughout your orthodontic journey.
1. Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay extra attention to brushing around the brackets and along the gumline.
Flossing daily with a floss threader or orthodontic flosser can help remove food particles stuck between your teeth and braces. Don’t forget to also use an antiseptic mouthwash for added protection against plaque and bacteria.
2. Use a Water Flosser
Water flossers are excellent tools for cleaning hard-to-reach areas around braces, such as between brackets and wires.
They flush out food particles and debris, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene with braces.
3. Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods
Foods that are excessively sticky or hard can easily damage your braces, leading to costly repairs and extending your treatment time.
Stay away from chewy candies, nuts, popcorn kernels, ice cubes, etc., which can break wires or loosen brackets.
If you want to know more about what you can eat with braces, make sure to check out our guide.
4. Rinse Your Mouth After Eating
If brushing isn’t an option, rinse your mouth with water after meals to help dislodge any food particles stuck in your braces. This will reduce the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Carrying a portable water bottle with you can make this task more convenient.
5. Use Fluoride Treatment
Your orthodontist may recommend using fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities during orthodontic treatment. It’s available in various forms, such as fluoride mouthwash, gels, or varnishes.
Make sure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions for the correct application and frequency.
6. Attend Regular Dental Cleanings
Regular visits to your dentist are necessary when you have braces as they can detect any dental issues early on and provide professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment during these cleanings.
7. Wear a Mouthguard
If you play sports or participate in physical activities, make sure to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth and braces from potential damage. Your orthodontist can custom-make one that fits comfortably over your braces.
Don’t forget to replace your mouth guard if it becomes worn out or damaged.
8. Brush Your Braces
In addition to brushing your teeth, you should also brush your braces gently with a specialized orthodontic brush or interdental brushes. This will help remove any food particles stuck in the brackets and wires.
You can also use an interproximal brush to clean between the wires and under the archwire.
9. Carry a Braces Care Kit
It’s always a good idea to have a braces care kit with you when you’re on-the-go. This can include your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss threader, orthodontic flosser, and any other cleaning tools recommended by your orthodontist.
Having these items readily available will make it easier for you to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the day.
10. Avoid Bad Habits
Chewing on objects such as pen caps, pens, or fingernails can damage your braces and teeth. Similarly, biting into hard objects like pencils or opening packages with your teeth can cause orthodontic appliances to break or loosen.
Avoid these bad habits to keep your braces intact.
The Importance of Following Orthodontist’s Instructions
Following your orthodontist’s instructions is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene with braces. They may recommend specific tools or techniques to clean your braces properly, depending on the type of braces you have. It’s essential to follow these instructions closely to ensure the best results and minimize any potential complications.
Expertise of Dr. Peter Wagner
With a rich family history in orthodontics, Dr. Peter Wagner is a 3rd-generation orthodontist dedicated to providing excellent care. Known for shorter treatment times and cutting-edge technology, Dr. Wagner ensures every patient receives individualized treatment in a friendly and educational environment.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding maintaining oral hygiene with braces, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us today!
Achieving a Brilliant Smile with Consistent Care
Achieving a healthy and beautiful smile with braces requires dedication to oral hygiene. By following these tips for braces and leveraging the expertise of Wagner Orthodontics, you can ensure a smooth and successful orthodontic experience.
Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with us today at Wagner Orthodontics and let’s work together to create the smile you’ve always wanted.