Posted on December 30, 2021
Even though millions of people wear braces each year, many do not know how to properly care for them.
Ultimately, a failure to care for your teeth and orthodontics can result in extra expenses, longer treatment periods, and general frustration. Here are five tips to get the most out of your metal braces.
You can damage your braces if you use the wrong brush. Brushing your teeth should be done with light pressure, too. Before brushing, clean your teeth with water to eliminate any bits of food that may be floating around.
Be sure to brush at an angle to clear away debris from above and below each of your brackets, as well as along the gum line to remove food from all corners.
Always rinse your mouth to help eliminate food particles when you can’t brush immediately.
You know you need to brush your teeth, but don’t forget about flossing! You’ll need to floss at least once a day. Your metal brackets might become clogged with crumbs if you don’t clean them.
In addition to preventing bad breath and cavities, frequent flossing can also help prevent gingivitis. Floss each of your teeth one at a time.
Getting an oral sprayer might be a good idea if you wear braces. Fill the irrigator with water before use, raise the stick to the teeth, and a reasonable amount of water will be released from this wand.
Food particles, tartar buildup, and germs can get removed from one’s traditional braces by using the wand.
Even when you’re wearing braces, you need to follow a well-balanced diet. However, some staples may become off-limits. Speak to your orthodontist about what kinds of food you should avoid when metal brackets are in place.
Candy, nuts, fibrous vegetables, and chips are more common examples of foods you’ll want to avoid. Instead, opt for smoothies, cut-up fruit, and other soft foods to avoid further discomfort. Try eating more delicate foods and steer away from sticky ones that could create issues.
While this may seem obvious, it’s worth explicitly noting. You should follow all directions provided by your orthodontist for best results. That way, your treatment will not suffer any setbacks.
For example, because of the risk of injury, your orthodontist may advise against participating in contact sports while you are undergoing treatment. They’ll also let you know how frequently you’ll need to come in for adjustments. This can ensure your treatment is completed on time or even ahead of schedule.
Finally, be sure to follow your orthodontist’s recommendations following post-braces treatment. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, about 25% of patients do not follow their retainer guide, prompting them to wear braces a second time.
Wearing traditional metal braces can still be one of the best ways to achieve a straighter, more beautiful smile. But in order to get the most out of your orthodontic treatment, you’ll want to refer to these tips. That way, you’ll have a better outcome. For more information on how we can help you attain the smile you’ve always wanted, please contact us today.