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caring for braces Wheeler Orthodontics

Caring For Your Braces

To avoid problems while you are in orthodontic treatment, take special care of your braces, teeth and gums to ensure you will have the best possible result. Review the information below for tips and guidance to maintaining good dental hygiene with braces.

Brushing

Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and apply a small strip of fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, move the brush in small circular motions to reach food particles. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas around the braces as well as the surface of the teeth. It will take you several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before you rinse. As soon as the bristles start to wear down or fray, replace your toothbrush with a new one. It is important to carefully floss and brush daily for optimal oral hygiene.

Flossing

For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach, dental floss is used to remove food particles and plaque. It is very important to floss between your teeth everyday. Our staff will review with you techniques to floss with braces. Guide the floss between the braces and the teeth so that you can clean the food and plaque between your teeth. Flossing your teeth daily, especially while wearing orthodontic appliances, will help to ensure healthy gum tissue and minimize the risk of cavities.

Diet Control

You will need to take special care to avoid any foods that could damage your braces. Foods to avoid:

  • – Chewy and sticky foods – gum, caramel, taffy
  • – Crunchy foods- popcorn, tortilla chips
  • – Hard foods- suckers, ice, nuts
  • – Hand-held foods – apples, bagels; may be eaten if sliced into small bite

Dental Visits

You should visit your family dentist twice a year (once every six months) in order to maintain healthy teeth and gum tissue. Your dentist will examine your teeth and provide an evaluation of existing dental problems and proposed treatment. Seeing your family dentist is just as important while wearing orthodontic appliances, even though you are seen in our office frequently.

If you have a dental emergency, you should call your dentist immediately.