So, you’re the proud new owner of a new set of braces. You’re on your way to a healthier, straighter smile! But there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind to keep your teeth healthy after you get your braces. Here are a few tips from the team at Burke Dental Group.
Braces can collect lots of food particles, and this can lead to bad breath as well as a higher risk of tooth decay (cavities). We recommend brushing after every meal, or at least two times per day to help minimize the risk of decay.
When you brush your teeth, you should use short, tooth-sized strokes. Hold your toothbrush at an angle above and below your braces brackets, and do your best to clean every part of your teeth and braces thoroughly. You may need to spend a bit more time brushing, and that’s okay!
Also, you still need to brush right after your braces are adjusted. We know that your teeth can be tender at this time, so you may want to avoid using an electric toothbrush for a few days after an adjustment. Switching to a brush with softer bristles is another good way to help reduce discomfort right after you’ve had your braces adjusted.
Don’t skip the fluoride! Fluoride is absolutely essential when you have braces. It helps remineralize (strengthen) your teeth by attracting certain minerals like calcium. By using ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste, you’re helping your teeth stay strong as they move into their new positions.
Don’t forget about flossing! Flossing removes food particles that are stuck between the tiny gaps and cracks between your teeth, and these particles can’t be removed with brushing alone.
Flossing with braces is pretty much the same as flossing without them. However, you’ll need to use a “floss threader” to get your floss between your teeth and behind the wire of your braces. Dr. Amanda Burke can show you the proper technique during your next visit!
If you’re having trouble flossing or you just want an extra layer of protection, you can buy a water flosser like a Waterpik. Water flossers use a stream of pressurized water that helps blast away food particles from your teeth and braces. While a water flosser is not a replacement for regular flossing, it’s a good addition to your oral hygiene routine, especially after you get braces in Brandon, MS.
After you get braces, your orthodontist will give you a full list of foods you should avoid while wearing your braces. Certain foods can damage and dislodge your braces, or lead to a higher risk of tooth decay. These foods include:
And more. If you want to keep your teeth healthy and keep your orthodontic treatment on track, make sure to avoid these foods.
Don’t Forget About Six-Month Visits At Redwood Pediatric Dentistry!
Along with the above steps, it’s important to visit Dr. Burke and the team at Burke Dental Group for regular preventive visits during the braces treatment process. Routine cleanings will keep your teeth healthy and strong, and oral exams allow our team to catch any potential issues early.
So don’t wait. Whether you’ve got braces or your teen has braces and is overdue for their next checkup, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation online or give us a call at (769) 241-1186 to speak with one of our friendly team members. We’re always accepting new patients in Brandon!