While you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, it is important to keep both your teeth and your braces as clean as possible. Food can easily become caught in braces, leading to the growth of bacteria that can harm your teeth. You need to clean your braces and teeth thoroughly each day to prevent the buildup of plaque, which can damage or stain your teeth.
Avoid Certain Foods
There are certain foods that are best avoided while wearing braces. Chewy foods like toffees can get caught in braces and can be very difficult to brush away.
Brush After Every Meal
Brushing after every meal can help to remove food from your braces and prevent the build up of plaque. First, remove any detachable parts from your orthodontic device, then carefully clean around the remaining parts, holding your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gum line. Brush each tooth for around 10 seconds before moving on to the next one.
Flossing While Wearing Braces
Use waxed floss to keep your teeth clean while you are wearing braces, as it is less likely to be shredded by the wires and pins attached to your teeth. You will need to carefully thread the floss under the main wire in order to pass it between adjacent teeth. Gently clean each tooth using a steady up and down movement.
Flossing your teeth can take a bit longer when you have braces, but it is very important for protecting against gum disease. Parents may need to help children with flossing until they get the hang of the technique. If you are having trouble using floss with your braces, ask your dentist or orthodontist for advice. There are other products, such as orthodontic brushes and water irrigation devices, that can also be used to clean between your teeth. Visit our website to review proper techniques for brushing and flossing.
Cleaning Invisalign Braces
Invisalign braces can be completely removed from the mouth, which makes them easier to clean. Ask your orthodontist about the Invisalign cleaning system, which uses crystals to quickly remove plaque from the device. While the Invisalign trays are being cleaned, you can clean your teeth to keep them free from plaque.
Drs. Savage, Sabol & Visser offer Invisalign as well as traditional braces for adult patients. All of our orthodontists will be happy to discuss the treatment options for your particular orthodontic condition if you want to straighten your teeth.
Cleaning Removable Retainers
As well as wire braces that are attached to your teeth, some orthodontic treatment plans also involve using a retainer on either the upper or lower teeth. You can remove this retainer and soak it in denture cleaning solution to keep it clean. Rinse the retainer thoroughly before putting it back into your mouth.
Keep Your Dental Appointments
While undergoing orthodontic treatment, it is very important to see your dentist regularly for checkups. You may also require a professional cleaning, which removes more plaque and tartar than you can at home. A professional cleaning can also remove stains from your teeth, so you can enjoy a beautiful, straight, white smile when your orthodontic treatment is complete.
