Maintaining oral care
Our orthodontists will review your oral hygiene while you receive orthodontic treatment. You may need to make some adjustments to your at-home care routine while wearing braces or receiving other treatment to keep your teeth and smile healthy
How can I keep my teeth healthy with my braces?
While you are wearing braces (as at any time), it is essential that you maintain good oral hygiene. Proper oral hygiene may be a bit more difficult with braces, but it is important that you take good care of your smile so you can prevent dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease and demineralization. If left untreated, these problems can cause more serious oral health issues and even prolong your orthodontic treatment. To keep your smile healthy while you have braces, our orthodontists and team encourage you to follow these guidelines:
-
Brush your teeth at least three times every day. Brush after every meal, and if you eat a sugary snack in between meals, it is best to brush again.
-
Use an interproximal brush to help clean around the brackets and wires. It can help to clean spots that your toothbrush might have a hard time reaching because of your braces.
-
Floss at least once every day. Using a floss threader can make it easier to thread the floss behind the wire of your braces.
-
Rinse your teeth with water every time you clean your teeth. Based on your specific needs, we may also recommend a specialized rinse.
-
Pay attention to the list of foods to avoid with braces. This can help to keep your smile healthy and avoid damage to your braces.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need to brush and floss while on braces treatment?
While it is true that your teeth are harder to see during your treatment, good oral hygiene is more important than ever. Not only will your teeth continue to accumulate plaque and tartar, but your dental work can also give these substances additional place to hide.
How do I care for my smile while on braces treatment?
Your home care routine will change during your orthodontic treatment, but you will get the hang of it in no time! We will provide you with a list of foods that you should avoid while you are wearing braces. These foods may damage your dental work or get stuck in your braces. You should brush your teeth a minimum of three times each day. You should brush after every meal, and it is a good idea to brush between snacks. You should still floss every day. This can be challenging, but a floss threader or interdental brush can make this easier. This brush can also assist you with cleaning around the brackets and wires. You should rinse your mouth after you brush and floss.
Do I still need to see my dentist?
Absolutely! In addition to your visits with our orthodontists, you should continue to schedule your regular cleanings and exams with your dentist and make an appointment if you develop a problem with your oral health.
We're here for you at anytime
At any time during these first appointments or later during treatment, please contact our office if you have any questions. Our objective is always to make sure your visits with us are pleasant and informative.