Braces at Home: Why It’s Important to Keep Your Smile Healthy
Prevents Cavities
Food and plaque can become trapped in the brackets and wires. If not properly removed or cleaned, these materials can lead to cavities.
Keeps Gums Healthy
If food and plaque are not removed, you may be more susceptible to gum disease. Initially, the gums will become irritated and inflamed, which can cause a condition known as gingivitis. If left untreated, this can cause periodontitis, which leads to bone loss around the teeth and potentially tooth loss in the future.
Stops Bad Breath
Bacteria in the mouth can use trapped food and plaque to create unpleasant odors. By removing the food and bacteria, bad breath can be prevented.
Prevents Staining and White Spots
If your oral hygiene is poor while wearing braces, staining on the teeth can be common. The staining can appear as white spot lesions (also known as decalcification, or weakening, of the teeth).
The Best Ways to Keep Your Teeth Clean
It’s important to make sure to clean above and below the brackets of your braces to remove any trapped food or plaque. Any soft bristle toothbrush will work well. An electric toothbrush is another helpful option to ensure you are cleaning those difficult to reach places. Electric toothbrushes provide additional benefits of rotating and vibrating bristles to help reach the tricky areas. Don’t forget to brush the inside surfaces of your teeth toward your tongue and palate as well as on top of your teeth. It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes and if possible, after every meal.
Flossing with traditional string floss can be challenging with orthodontic brackets and wires. Using a floss threader or a special orthodontic floss can help to get in between the teeth. Once the floss is underneath the wire and between the teeth, make sure to wrap the floss around both sides of each tooth to properly clean the area. A water flosser is also a great tool to adequately clean the teeth. By aiming the stream of water at the gumline and between the teeth, it can help remove trapped food and plaque. It is recommended to floss at least once a day, with the best time being at night to remove any extra food before bed.
Rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash is another great way to remove extra food between the teeth and brackets while strengthening tooth enamel.
What Should I Avoid if I Have Braces?
You should limit the amount of sugary or acidic drinks such as soda or sports drinks. These not only increase the risk of cavities, but they can damage the cement that holds the brackets in place. It is best to avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or chewy, such as nuts, popcorn kernels, hard candy, gum, and caramel. These types of foods can damage your braces or cause them to become loose. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid certain habits like chewing on hard items such as pens or pencils, or biting your nails while wearing braces.
When to Schedule Additional Cleanings
Keeping your teeth clean is an essential part of successful orthodontic treatment. If there are challenges to keeping your teeth and braces clean, and there is an increase in plaque buildup or gum inflammation, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
