Getting braces is a key move toward reaching a healthier, straighter smile.
But while brushing and flossing are essential, there’s a lot more involved in keeping your teeth, gums, and orthodontic appliances in top condition.
Braces have tiny gaps that can hold bits of food and plaque, leading to issues if not properly addressed.
Let’s discuss how you can care excellently for your mouth during orthodontic treatments—beyond the basics.
Be Mindful of What You Eat
One of the most overlooked aspects of dental care with braces is diet.
What you eat can either support your treatment or work against it.
Certain foods can damage wires or get stuck in brackets, causing discomfort and delays.
Avoid:
- Sticky candies like caramels and gummy bears
- Hard foods such as popcorn, nuts, and raw carrots
- Chewing gum
Opt for softer options that don’t require excessive chewing.
Foods like mashed potatoes, bananas, steamed vegetables, and pasta are generally safe.
Being cautious with your food choices will protect your braces and reduce your risk of complications.
Stay on Schedule with Professional Cleanings
No matter how diligent you are with daily care, professional dental cleanings are crucial when undergoing orthodontic treatments.
A family dentist in Mississauga can help you maintain oral health by removing plaque and tartar buildup around the brackets and gum line.
Routine visits also allow your dentist to look for early warning signs of cavities or gum problems that you might not catch at home.
Aim to visit your family dentist in Mississauga every six months or more frequently if recommended.
Use the Right Tools for the Job
Brushing and flossing with braces isn’t as straightforward as it used to be.
Thankfully, there are specialized tools designed to make the process easier and more effective.
Try incorporating:
- Interdental brushes: These small brushes help you clean between wires and around brackets.
- Water flossers: A gentle stream of water can remove debris from hard-to-reach areas.
- Orthodontic toothbrushes: These have V-shaped bristles tailored for cleaning around braces.
Using the right tools ensures a deeper clean, reducing your chances of plaque buildup and cavities.
Also Read: The Long-Term Impact of Vaping on Your Dental Care and Oral Health
Don’t Ignore Your Gums
It’s easy to focus on your teeth and forget your gums during orthodontic treatments, but gum health is just as important.
Swollen or bleeding gums can indicate gingivitis, which can worsen if ignored.
Take extra care to:
- Massage your gums while brushing
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Use floss threaders to clean under the gumline
Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for your teeth, helping your braces do their job more efficiently.
Pay Extra Attention to Lingual Braces
If you wear lingual braces, your care routine will need even more precision.
Since these braces are placed on the back of your teeth, they can be harder to see and clean.
Tips for lingual braces care:
- Use a mirror to guide your brushing from behind
- Angle your toothbrush to reach tricky spots
- Focus on your tongue’s cleanliness as it’s in constant contact with the braces
Lingual braces can be discreet and effective, but only if you maintain a thorough cleaning routine.
Keeping them clean is key to avoiding bad breath and enamel damage.
Check for Damage Often
Regularly inspecting your braces can help catch small problems before they become big ones.
Look for bent wires, loose brackets, or unusual wear on the enamel.
If something seems off, contact your family dentist in Mississauga or orthodontist as soon as possible.
A quick fix can prevent extended treatment times and discomfort.
Being proactive is part of successful orthodontic treatments.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your mouth during orthodontic treatments involves more than just brushing and flossing.
With braces or lingual braces, the right food choices, tools, professional checkups, and attention to detail all play a part in keeping your smile healthy and your treatment on track.
Make these habits part of your routine; your post-braces smile will be worth every effort.
Contact us to learn more.