How to Care for Your Teeth and Braces During Orthodontic Treatment

Embarking on an orthodontic treatment journey can be both exciting and daunting. While you look forward to achieving a beautifully aligned smile, it’s crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout the process. Proper care for your teeth and braces is essential to ensure effective treatment and prevent potential issues like cavities or gum disease. At Broad Street Braces, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s how to care for your teeth and braces during orthodontic treatment.

1. Maintain a Diligent Oral Hygiene Routine

Braces create nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can easily accumulate, making oral hygiene more challenging. To keep your teeth and gums healthy:

• Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle your brush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the brackets and wires effectively.
• Floss Daily: Flossing is crucial to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the wires. Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate around your braces.
• Use an Interdental Brush: An interdental brush can help clean hard-to-reach areas around brackets and wires. These small, bristled brushes are excellent for removing debris and plaque buildup.
• Rinse with Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Rinse daily to keep your mouth clean and fresh.

2. Be Mindful of Your Diet

Certain foods can damage your braces or get stuck, leading to oral health issues. Follow these dietary guidelines:

• Avoid Sticky and Chewy Foods: Foods like caramel, gum, and gummy candies can stick to your braces and are hard to clean off.
• Steer Clear of Hard Foods: Hard foods such as nuts, popcorn, and hard candies can break brackets or wires. Cut harder fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces before eating.
• Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugary foods and beverages can increase the risk of cavities. Opt for healthier alternatives like fruits, vegetables, and water.

3. Protect Your Braces During Physical Activity

If you participate in sports or other physical activities, it’s important to protect your braces and teeth from injury. A custom-fit mouthguard can shield your braces and teeth from impact. Talk to your orthodontist about getting a mouthguard that fits comfortably over your braces.

4. Address Issues Promptly

During your orthodontic treatment, you might encounter issues such as loose brackets, poking wires, or general discomfort:

• Loose Brackets or Bands: If a bracket or band becomes loose, contact your orthodontist immediately to schedule a repair.
• Poking Wires: If a wire is irritating your cheeks or gums, use orthodontic wax to cover the end until you can see your orthodontist.
• Discomfort: Some discomfort is normal, especially after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses can help alleviate soreness.

5. Attend Regular Orthodontic Appointments

Regular visits to your orthodontist are crucial for monitoring your progress and making necessary adjustments.

• Scheduled Check-Ups: Attend all scheduled appointments to ensure your treatment stays on track.
• Professional Cleanings: Continue to see your regular dentist for cleanings and check-ups every six months. Professional cleanings are essential to remove plaque and tartar that can accumulate around your braces.

Caring for your teeth and braces during orthodontic treatment is essential for achieving the best possible results. At Broad Street Braces, we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. If you have any questions or concerns about your orthodontic care, don’t hesitate to contact us at our clinic in Philadelphia, PA. Your smile is our top priority!