When you have straight teeth, you are more likely to feel better about your smile and your teeth harbor less bacteria because they are also easier for you to clean. But if you need braces to maintain alignment, metal brackets and wires can create a temporary oral hygiene problem. If you’re wondering how best to take care of metal-filled teeth, read on.
We’ll give you some helpful tips and advice to get your smile where you can… well smile.
Other Benefits of Wearing Braces
A little extra effort to take care of your teeth while wearing braces is well worth it. When you have straight teeth, your risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease is reduced and can better support your teeth when your gums are not overlapping. Plus, when they’re put together correctly, you’re less likely to chip, break or wear your teeth. Braces can even reduce the abnormal stress placed on your jaw from misaligned teeth. All these benefits may be why braces are no longer just for kids.
How to Practice Good Oral Hygiene with Braces?
When you have the right cleaning products and know how to care for your braces and teeth, you may find that maintaining good oral hygiene is easier than you think:
.Brush after meal. Carry a soft, round-bristled toothbrush with you because you should brush your teeth after every meal or snack.
.Brush at the gumline and under the braces. Brush at a .45 degree angle with the bristles facing your gumline. Then brush on top of your braces and under your braces.
.Floss at least once a day. Clean between your teeth with interdental brushes or floss.
.Rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash. And also use a tongue scraper!
.Visit your dentist for regular appointments. Be sure to keep seeing your dentist for appointments so they can catch any developing conditions early and advise you on care for your specific needs.
If you find yourself without a toothbrush after snacking or eating, rinsing your mouth with water to remove any food particles that may have stuck to your teeth is a quick alternative.
Foods to Avoid
Eating healthy foods is important if you wear braces because sugary foods are more likely to cause tooth decay if they get caught in your braces. Other foods to avoid as they can damage your braces include:
Popcorn
jelly beans
confectionery
Hazelnut
Chewing gum
hard candy
Caramel
İce
And other hard or sticky foods
Braces can be uncomfortable at first and practicing good oral hygiene may seem difficult. But most of the discomfort passes, and like any new venture, when you do it enough, it just becomes part of your routine. Before you know it, you’ll have your braces removed with straight, pearly white teeth that will make you smile. (Don’t forget to wear your feet!)
