Oral care with braces requires extra effort—neglecting it can lead to cavities, gum problems, and permanent stains
The wires and brackets of braces form numerous nooks and crannies ideal for trapping debris and bacteria
so your cleaning routine needs to be more thorough than usual
Make it a habit to brush immediately following every meal and snack
Choose a toothbrush with gentle bristles and a toothpaste containing fluoride
spend extra moments ensuring every tooth is thoroughly cleaned
Position the bristles at the gumline and ensure you reach the top and bottom edges of every bracket
Don’t forget the backs of your teeth and your tongue
Daily flossing remains vital despite the added difficulty caused by orthodontic wires
Employ a floss threader or specialized orthodontic floss to navigate under the archwire and clean between teeth
Gently move the floss up and down along each side of the tooth, being careful not to snap it against the wire
At first, flossing will require patience, but your technique will become quicker and more natural over time
An interdental brush is highly effective for removing plaque from areas your regular toothbrush can’t reach
It can remove debris that your regular toothbrush might miss
A therapeutic mouthwash helps fight bacteria while reducing discomfort and redness
Choose one that is alcohol free to avoid drying out your mouth
Stay away from foods that can damage your braces—caramel, chewing gum, popcorn kernels, and hard candy
Such foods risk bending wires, dislodging brackets, or becoming lodged in inaccessible areas
Always reduce hard foods like apples and carrots into manageable, small portions
Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently, particularly after eating, to naturally flush out debris
When brushing isn’t possible, rinse vigorously with water to reduce bacterial accumulation
Take a moment each day to examine your braces for warping, looseness, or broken components
Don’t wait—reach out to your orthodontist as soon as you notice something strange or painful
Stay consistent with your orthodontist visits to ensure proper tracking and timely modifications
Proper daily habits ensure your teeth remain strong and 墨田区 前歯矯正 your treatment progresses smoothly toward a perfect smile