Taking care of your teeth will be harder once you have braces. Braces trap food with their tiny spaces and allow plaque to build upon your teeth. These spaces can lead to plaque buildup, which can evolve into different types of dental problems. This is why it’s important to brush your teeth after every meal, rinse with mouthwash, and floss at least once a day.
Neglecting your oral hygiene can cause serious health issues or cause you to be in braces longer than necessary. You should be prepared for increased responsibility when taking care of braces properly. Fortunately, it will all be worth it once you get your smile back.
If you’re about to get braces put in, here are some essential tips for taking good care of them:
Brush Properly
Remember to not brush too hard and to use toothpaste that is soft enough to clean the teeth without damaging the braces. Electric and manual brushes are both good options. The most important thing is to brush your teeth multiple times a day to keep the plaque away and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
You may find yourself using your teeth to open packages or take something out of the freezer or refrigerator. This can cause your braces to get bent, which will make your teeth move more slowly and may make the process take longer. If you need to use something with your teeth, try using the appropriate tool for it instead.
Make Sure Your Wires and Brackets Are Clean
Wires and brackets can get dirty if you don’t clean them often. Wires get stuck with food and debris, and sometimes the excess wire isn’t cleaned properly. This can lead to gum disease. It’s important to keep your teeth and wires clean, so you should brush them after you brush your teeth and floss.
Wear a Mouthguard for Sports
After braces are installed, your teeth and mouth may be more susceptible to injury. This is why it’s a good idea to wear a mouthguard while engaging in contact sports. There are different types of mouthguards, so make sure you choose one right for you. Wearing a mouthguard can help you avoid any accidents and protect your teeth, especially during physically demanding activities.
Visit Your Orthodontist Regularly
If you’re getting braces, you should visit your orthodontist about once every month. This will help you get a good adjustment on your braces and make sure that your teeth are moving properly. You should also visit the orthodontist if you have any problems.
Conclusion
It is important to remember the importance of taking good care of your teeth and braces throughout your treatment. Otherwise, you may need to get numerous revisions, which can make the process take much longer than it needs to. Braces will take some getting used to, but they are among the best solutions for straightening teeth. In the end, taking good care of your teeth will lead to a more beautiful smile and better overall health.
Visit our clinic for quality treatment from family orthodontists in Manassas. Our team will correct your bite and improve your smile! Schedule an appointment, so we can start working toward your perfect smile.
