Braces are a common orthodontic treatment used to straighten crooked teeth. They consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth and connected by wires. While braces can help improve the appearance of your smile, they also require diligent oral hygiene practices to keep them clean and avoid dental issues.
In this guide, we will discuss some tips on maintaining good oral hygiene with braces on crooked teeth. Read on.
Brushing
Food particles and plaque can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires, leading to bacteria buildup and tooth decay.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth while wearing braces. Start by brushing at a 45-degree angle along the gum line, using gentle circular motions.
Pay extra attention to the areas around the brackets and wires, removing any food debris. Then, brush the surfaces of your teeth by moving the brush back and forth.
Brushing your teeth after every meal or snack when you have braces is recommended. If that is not possible, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to dislodge any food particles before brushing later on.
Flossing
Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach.
Gently guide the floss under the wire and between the teeth, cleaning both sides of each tooth. Take your time and be gentle to avoid damaging your braces or gums.
Flossing at least once a day, preferably before bedtime, is recommended. This will remove any leftover food particles and plaque, allowing your gums to rest and heal overnight.
Rinse With Mouthwash
Look for an alcohol-free mouthwash that is safe to use with metal braces, as alcohol can damage the brackets and wires.
Rinse your mouth with a small amount of mouthwash after brushing and flossing. Swish it in your mouth for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out. Mouthwash can reach areas your toothbrush or floss may have missed and provide additional protection against plaque and bacteria.
Watch Your Diet
Certain foods can damage or get stuck in your braces, making it more challenging to clean them properly. Avoid hard, sticky, and sugary foods such as popcorn, taffy, and gum, as they can damage or dislodge your braces. Instead, opt for softer foods that are easier to chew and won’t get stuck in your braces.
Regular Dental Visits
Your orthodontist will check the condition of your braces and make any necessary adjustments. They can also clean your teeth and offer advice on improving your oral hygiene routine.
Visiting your orthodontist every four to six weeks or as your treatment plan instructs is recommended. This will ensure that your braces are working correctly and any issues can be addressed promptly. So, don’t wait to find a dentist in Victoria, TX, if you are in this area.
Follow This Guide to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene With Braces on Crooked Teeth
Having braces on crooked teeth requires extra effort to maintain good oral hygiene, but it is well worth it. By brushing and flossing regularly, using mouthwash, watching your diet, and visiting your orthodontist regularly, you can keep your braces clean and avoid dental problems.
Remember that maintaining good oral hygiene with braces is about having a beautiful smile and keeping your teeth and gums healthy for years. So, stay committed to your oral hygiene routine, and you will see positive results.
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Piran is the bestselling author of the Zobuz, TheHearus and other well known Blogs. Her books have sold hundred of copies and are published in different languages.
