For many, braces are a necessary part of life. However, taking care of braces can be a little more involved than a simple brush and floss routine. And, as a result, many patients worry about experiencing tooth decay due to dental hygiene that is not up to par. The good news is that with a little understanding and practice, it is easy to keep your teeth–with or without braces–as clean and healthy as they can be.
Create a New Routine
While brushing and flossing may not have been a favorite or fun activity without braces, once you have braces, these activities are more important than ever before. After all, these are the first steps of prevention when it comes to ensuring your mouth stays free from tooth decay. Fortunately, your new oral hygiene routine doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, you can maintain a clean and healthy mouth in just a few steps:
- Rinse the mouth to loosen food particles stuck in the braces.
- Brush, beginning at the gum line at a 45 degree angle. Then brush down across each bracket. On the bottom brackets, simply angle the toothbrush upwards.
- Floss with the help of a floss threader to get between the brackets.
- Finish with mouthwash.
By following these simple steps, you will be well on your way to preventing tooth decay. However, there is more to the story.
Eat Mindfully
While proper hygiene is an essential part of keeping a healthy mouth, food and drink also play a major role in tooth health. Some food and drink can interact with mouth bacteria to produce acids. Over time, acids can wear down the enamel of the teeth, leading to demineralization and, when this process continues over time, cavities. To avoid these negative side effects, it is best to avoid or minimize the consumption of highly sugary and acidic foods.
Preventing tooth decay with braces does not have to be an intimidating feat. However, if you have questions about the best way to care for your mouth, we recommend speaking with a trusted dental professional. Our team has already helped countless patients in and around Virginia Beach maintain a radiant smile during orthodontic treatment and beyond. To find out how we can assist you, contact us today.
