Have you begun your journey to straighter teeth? If you are getting braces, whether ceramic or traditional, you want to protect your smile throughout your dental journey. The road to perfectly aligned teeth comes with many challenges. However, maintaining a healthy smile with braces is entirely possible with dedication and consistency. That’s why we wanted to share tips on how to keep your teeth and braces in tip-top condition throughout your orthodontic journey.
- Master the Art of Brushing
Proper brushing is the cornerstone of maintaining good oral health with braces. Make sure you brush your teeth after every meal to get rid of any food or sugar from beverages off your teeth. Not only is this good for your teeth, but it will also save you from the embarrassment of having food stuck in your brackets. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, making gentle circular motions. Consider taking a travel toothbrush with you, just in case you need to do a quick brushing routine away from home.
- Be Consistent With Flossing:
Flossing becomes even more critical when you have braces. Foods can easily get stuck underneath wires or between your teeth. Invest in floss threaders or interdental brushes to navigate between wires and brackets effectively. Regular flossing helps prevent plaque buildup and reduces the risk of cavities in hard-to-reach areas. You should floss at least once a day, if not after every meal.
- Choose Braces-Friendly Foods:
When you get braces, you’ll need to change up your food choices to protect your orthodontic investment. Your new wires and brackets can be damaged or dislodged by eating hard, sticky, crunchy, or chewy foods. Incorporate nutrient-rich options like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies into your meals. If you go for crunchy fruits and veggies, ensure you cook them, so they are softer on your teeth.
- Hydrate for Health
Staying hydrated is essential for oral health. It can also be helpful when you have braces. Sipping water throughout the day helps wash away food particles. It also reduces acidity in the mouth and promotes saliva production. However, make sure you avoid sugary or acidic drinks as your hydration of choice. When sugar blends in with the bacteria in your mouth, it can increase your risk of cavities.
- Don’t Miss Routine Orthodontic Check-ups
Regular visits to our practice for orthodontic checkups are critical when wearing braces. We monitor the progress of your treatment and make any necessary wire adjustments. Be dedicated to keeping your appointments. We are open until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, which is ideal if you need to visit us after work or school.
- Orthodontic Wax Is Your Ally
Orthodontic wax is a lifesaver when it comes to managing discomfort caused by brackets or wires. Keep it on hand and use it to cover any sharp edges or irritating components of your braces. This simple tool can make your orthodontic experience much more comfortable. Don’t forget to pack some with you during the day!
- Guard Your Smile During Physical Activity:
If you play sports, even if it’s not a high-impact sport, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect both your braces and your teeth. We can create a custom-fitted mouthguard that provides an additional layer of defense against potential injuries. It will be comfortable for you to wear and offer you greater protection than store-bought versions. Wearing it consistently will greatly reduce your risk of injuring your braces while playing athletics.
- Wear Your Retainer
After your braces are removed, you’ll receive a custom retainer. This retainer will keep your teeth in their proper alignment. Your teeth have a memory and will shift back to their original position without diligent retainer wear. We’ll give you exact instructions on how often to wear your retainer.
With the proper oral care habits and routines, you will accomplish your orthodontic goals with ease. Remember that the temporary challenges posed by braces lead to a lifetime of improved oral health and a radiant smile. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you’ll not only achieve the straight teeth you’ve always wanted, but also maintain good oral health throughout the process.
Call 909-989-5598 or schedule online to make an appointment at Jia Y. Lee, DDS in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.
