Braces are a step toward achieving a confident and healthy smile. They play a crucial role in correcting misaligned teeth, improving bite alignment, and creating a perfect smile.
There is much more about braces and aligners on our Braces and Aligner page.
Maintaining oral hygiene is critical for the overall health of the oral cavity. Neglecting proper care can lead to:
A consistent daily routine is key to keeping your braces clean and your treatment on track. Follow these simple care tips every day to protect your teeth, prevent damage, and get the best results from your orthodontic treatment.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to keep your teeth, gums, and braces clean.
Brush thoroughly after every meal to remove food debris and plaque. Use a soft-bristled orthodontic toothbrush or electric toothbrush with orthodontic head, along with fluoride toothpaste.
Pay extra attention to areas around the brackets and wires. Angle the brush at 45 degrees and gently clean around the brackets, tooth surfaces, and gums. Brush the front, back, and chewing surfaces of all teeth.
Brush for at least two minutes, twice daily. Night brushing is very important to maintain oral hygiene.
Flossing can be challenging with braces, but it is crucial for removing food particles and plaque between the teeth and gums.
Use orthodontic floss or water flossers for better access and ease. This step is essential as it targets areas a toothbrush cannot reach, helping prevent cavities and gum disease.
Flossing is done before you brush your teeth.
These small, tapered brushes can fit easily between wires and brackets, allowing better cleaning in hard-to-reach areas. Use them to clean around brackets and remove trapped food particles.
Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce plaque and tooth decay. It also helps maintain gum health and freshens breath.
Avoid biting nails, chewing on pens or pencils, or clenching your jaw, as these habits can damage the braces or slow down treatment progress. If you feel you are clenching or grinding your teeth, inform your orthodontist immediately.
Regular visits to the orthodontist ensure your treatment is progressing as planned. These appointments allow for timely adjustments and early resolution of any issues.
Dental professionals recommend wearing a mouthguard during sports or activities where there is a risk of facial impact.
This is especially important for people with braces, as an injury can damage the braces, teeth, gums, and lips.
Consult your orthodontist to choose the right mouthguard for your needs.
Unexpected issues can sometimes happen during your braces journey. Knowing how to handle common orthodontic emergencies can help you stay comfortable and avoid delays in your treatment.
Continue to visit your general dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. This ensures your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout the orthodontic treatment
Taking care of your braces is essential for achieving great results and maintaining a healthy smile. Following good oral hygiene practices, eating the right foods, attending appointments, and following your orthodontist’s advice all contribute to a smooth and effective treatment journey
For more information on orthodontic treatments, visit Braces and Aligners
For a seamless and personalized braces journey, visit Dhriti Dental, in Nallagandla or Manikonda, now! Our expert orthodontists ensure comfortable treatment and informed treatment journeys