Cleaning your teeth is very important when you have braces. This is because braces can get foods and sugary drinks stuck between the wires, bands and other parts of the upper and lower teeth.
These can lead to other problems such as broken braces or a bad orthodontic treatment. However, if you clean your teeth properly, you can avoid these and other dental problems. This guide will explain to you how to clean your teeth with brackets.
Tips to Use When Taking Care of Your Braces
- After every meal and before going to bed, brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Use a proxy brush, which is better suited for the needs of patients with braces, to better reach all areas between the braces
- Clean between the teeth using a floss and floss threader to remove the debris and plaque around your braces.
- Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse or the one containing fluoride to clean the difficult-to-reach sites.
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups and keep your teeth clean during the orthodontic treatment.
- Avoid chewing hard, sticky, and sugary foods to minimize the risk of damage to your braces and caries.
- If you cannot access clean water immediately, when you are on the road, or at other inconvenient times, you can use a soft brush and toothpaste. The brush should be moistened with a little water before use. Make sure not to swallow the paste or water and rinse your mouth again as soon as the procedure is over.
The Importance of Regular Brushing
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, especially when you have braces. Regular brushing helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and unsightly stains.
Proper brushing and flossing are crucial for maintaining oral health and ensuring the success of your orthodontic treatment with braces.
Effective Flossing Methods
Flossing with braces is crucial for maintaining oral hygiene. It helps remove food particles and plaque that a toothbrush can’t reach, especially around the brackets and wires. Here are some effective methods to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.
Using a Floss Threader
A floss threader is a handy tool that makes it easier to floss with braces. Thread the floss between the wire and your teeth using the threader. This helps you reach areas that are otherwise difficult to clean. Make sure to floss at least once a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Types of Floss to Use
There are different types of floss you can use with braces. Super Floss is highly recommended because it’s easier to use and less likely to damage your braces. You can also use small interdental brushes to clean around the braces if you find them helpful.
Flossing Technique
To floss effectively, take about 20 cm of floss and wrap it around your index fingers. Gently move the floss between your teeth and along the gum line to remove plaque and food particles. Be careful not to pull too hard to avoid damaging your braces.
Flossing Frequency
Flossing should be done at least once a day. This helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, ensuring your mouth stays clean and healthy. If you have any problems flossing with braces, consult your orthodontist for advice.
Incorporating Mouthwash into Your Routine
Using mouthwash with braces is a great way to keep your mouth clean and fresh. It helps reach areas that brushing and flossing might miss, ensuring a thorough clean.
Benefits of Mouthwash
Mouthwash can help kill bacteria, reduce plaque, and freshen breath. Incorporating mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine can also help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Types of Mouthwash
There are different types of mouthwash available, including fluoride mouthwash, which helps strengthen teeth, and antimicrobial mouthwash, which helps reduce bacteria. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
Proper Rinsing Technique
To use mouthwash effectively, pour the recommended amount into a cup, swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Do not swallow the mouthwash.
Using mouthwash with braces can help maintain fresh breath and kill bacteria that brushing and flossing may miss.
Dietary Considerations for Braces Wearers
Maintaining a proper diet is crucial when you have braces. Certain foods can damage your braces or make cleaning more difficult, leading to potential oral health issues. Here are some Braces care tips to help you navigate your dietary choices effectively.
Foods to Avoid
There are specific foods you should steer clear of to prevent damage to your braces. These include:
- Popcorn
- Apples
- Caramels
- Pretzels
- Chewing Gum
- Bagels
- Corn on the cob
Basically, anything hard, crunchy, or sticky should be avoided. Additionally, it’s wise to minimize sugary drinks and candy, as sugar can sit under the brackets and cause tooth decay.
Braces-Friendly Foods
While there are many foods to avoid, there are still plenty of options that are safe to eat with braces. These include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Pudding
- Pasta
- Soup
- Ice cream
- Soft fruits like bananas and grapes
- Bread
- Eggs
These foods are not only safe but also gentle on your teeth and braces, especially after adjustments when your mouth might be sore.
Managing Sugar Intake
It’s important to manage your sugar intake to prevent tooth decay. Sugary foods and drinks can lead to plaque buildup around your braces, increasing the risk of cavities. Opt for healthier snacks and drinks to keep your teeth and braces in good condition.
Hydration and Oral Health
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining oral health. Drinking plenty of water helps flush away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of dental issues. It also keeps your mouth moist, which can prevent dry mouth and other oral health problems.
Remember, following these dietary guidelines can make a big impact on both your brackets staying on and your comfort. By choosing the right foods, you can ensure a smoother and more comfortable experience with your braces.
Handling Discomfort and Emergencies
Using Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is a simple solution to ease the discomfort caused by braces. Apply a small piece of wax over the sharp edges of brackets or wires to prevent them from irritating your gums and cheeks. Always ensure your hands and the area are clean before applying the wax.
Dealing with Loose Wires or Brackets
Loose wires or brackets can be annoying and sometimes painful. If a wire is poking you, use a pencil eraser to gently push it back into place. For a loose bracket, you can use orthodontic wax to temporarily secure it. If the issue persists, contact your orthodontist for further advice.
It’s important to know when to seek professional help. Contact your orthodontist if you experience severe pain, a broken appliance, or if a wire or bracket is causing significant discomfort. Don’t hesitate to reach out; your orthodontist is there to help you through these situations.
Remember, handling minor issues at home can save you a trip to the orthodontist, but always consult them for serious problems.
The Role of Regular Dental Check-Ups
Maintaining good oral hygiene with braces requires more than just brushing and flossing. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. These visits help in identifying and addressing any issues early on, preventing complications down the road.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene During Physical Activities
When you have braces, keeping your teeth clean is even more important, especially during physical activities. Here are some tips to help you maintain good oral hygiene while staying active.
Using a Mouthguard
Wearing a mouthguard is crucial for any physical activity since it helps shield the braces from impact and prevents potential injuries to the mouth. Make sure to choose a mouthguard that fits well and is comfortable to wear.
Hydration During Sports
Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health and your oral health. Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of dental issues. Always carry a water bottle with you and take sips regularly.
Post-Activity Oral Care
After engaging in physical activities, take a few minutes to clean your mouth. Rinse with water to remove any debris and, if possible, brush your teeth. This helps in maintaining dental health during orthodontics and ensures that your braces stay clean and free from food particles.
Conclusion
Taking care of your braces might seem like a lot of work, but it’s really important for keeping your teeth healthy and making sure your braces do their job. By brushing and flossing every day, watching what you eat, and going to your regular check-ups, you can avoid problems like cavities and gum disease. Remember, the extra effort you put in now will pay off with a beautiful, straight smile when your braces come off. So stick with it, follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
You should brush your teeth after every meal and before going to bed. Make sure to clean around each bracket and wire carefully.
What type of toothbrush is best for braces?
A soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush is best. Make sure to replace it more often as braces can wear out the bristles faster.
How do I floss with braces?
Use a floss threader to guide the floss under the wire. Clean between your teeth and around the braces thoroughly.
Can I use mouthwash with braces?
Yes, using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help reach areas that are hard to clean with a toothbrush or floss.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods like popcorn, nuts, and caramel. These can damage your braces.
What should I do if a wire or bracket becomes loose?
Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges and contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to fix it.
