Orthodontic treatment, including braces or aligners, is an effective way to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve the overall appearance of your smile. However, maintaining good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is crucial to achieving the best results and preventing unnecessary problems. At Pacific Dental Care, gentle dentist in Glendale, we want to ensure that our patients understand the importance of proper oral care while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Here are some essential tips for caring for your teeth during this process.
Understanding the Challenges
Orthodontic appliances such as braces require extra care in maintaining oral hygiene. The brackets, wires, and bands can trap food particles and plaque, making it more difficult to clean your teeth thoroughly. This can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and staining around the brackets. By applying the right care and attention, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your treatment.
Brushing and Flossing
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an orthodontic toothbrush designed to clean around braces effectively.
- Brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles and plaque.
- Angle your toothbrush at 45 degrees towards the gum line and brush both above and below the brackets.
- Use small, circular motions to clean all surfaces of your teeth and braces.
Flossing with braces can be challenging, but it is essential for removing plaque and food debris between your teeth.
- Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to clean under the archwire and between your teeth.
- Be gentle to avoid damaging your braces and gums, and make sure to floss at a regular daily interval.
- Interdental Brushes and Water Flossers
- In addition to regular brushing and flossing, using interdental brushes and water flossers can do a better job in cleaning hard-to-reach areas around your braces.
Interdental Brushes
These small brushes can be used to clean between the brackets and wires, helping to remove plaque and food particles within these spaces.
Water Flossers
Water flossers use a stream of water to clean between your teeth and around your braces, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment. Certain foods can damage your braces or contribute to dental problems.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Foods like nuts, popcorn, hard candy, and chewing gum can damage brackets and wires or get stuck in your braces. Avoid these foods to prevent damage and maintain your oral hygiene.
Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods can increase the risk of tooth decay and enamel erosion. Limit your intake of sugary snacks and beverages, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods.
Soft Foods
Opt for softer foods that are more gentle on your braces and easier to clean. Examples include yogurt, pasta, scrambled eggs, and soft fruits.
While undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to continue with regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can monitor your oral health, provide professional cleanings, and address any issues that may arise during your treatment. Inform your dentist about your treatment, so they can take extra care when cleaning around your braces or aligners.
Orthodontic Care Kit
Consider carrying an orthodontic care kit with you, especially when traveling. This kit can include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, interdental brushes, and orthodontic wax to address any discomfort from braces. Having these tools on hand can help you maintain your oral hygiene and manage any issues that arise while away from home.
Caring for your teeth during orthodontic treatment is essential for achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. By following these tips and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you can prevent dental problems and ensure the best results.