Most people know they should brush and floss their teeth regularly, but many don’t realize that this is just as important when you have braces.
With more than four million Americans with braces, braces care becomes an essential part of many people’s dental health.
In fact, brushing and flossing are even more critical when you have braces because food can get stuck in the brackets and wires and cause cavities or other problems. But if you’re unsure of how to care for braces, no worries.
Keep on reading to learn all about how to take care of metal braces and ceramic braces for healthy gums and teeth.
How to Care for Braces 101: Brush After Every Meal
You should brush your teeth after every meal, using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Be sure to brush around all of the brackets and wires, and to floss between each tooth.
If you have braces, flossing can be a little tricky. But it’s still important to do it every day. Here are a few tips to help make it a little easier.
Use a Waterpik or irrigator to help loosen the plaque and bacteria around your braces. This will make it easier to remove with floss. Use waxed floss or a floss threader to help get the floss between your teeth and around your braces.
Always remember to be gentle. Flossing with braces can be tough on your gums, so take it slow and be careful not to scrub too hard.
Rinse With Mouthwash
Rinsing with mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria. Be sure to use a mouthwash that is alcohol-free, so it won’t irritate your gums.
Mouthwash is a great way to keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria. It can help fight bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis. Mouthwash is also a great way to freshen your mouth after eating or drinking something that doesn’t taste very good.
There are many different types of mouthwash available, so it’s important to find one that you like the taste of and that works well for your needs.
Wear a Mouthguard While Playing Sports
If you play any contact sports, it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces.
You can get a custom-made mouthguard from your orthodontist, or you can buy one at a sporting goods store. Just make sure it fits well and is comfortable to wear.
Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods
Sticky foods like candy or gum can get caught in your braces and be difficult to remove.
Hard foods like nuts or candy can damage your braces and cause pain. Also, it can break one of the wires of your braces. If you’re dealing with broken bracket braces, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist as soon as possible.
Taking Care of Your Braces: Explained
With braces becoming a common dental health step for many of us, it’s important to understand how to care for braces, regardless of their type and material.
We hope that our guide has shed some light on the topic. But, you should visit your orthodontist every 6-8 weeks for a checkup.
They will adjust your braces as necessary and make sure that your treatment is on track. Next, you should check out our health section for more tips and advice on taking care of your pearly white teeth.
