How to Maintain Oral Health with Braces

Braces are a perfect choice among people who want their smiles to be perfectly aligned. If you have started your braces treatment, you might feel how to manage them. You are probably thinking about how much time and effort this is going to take, especially about keeping your teeth clean. 

A study in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics found that up to 50% of braces patients develop gingivitis if they don’t clean their teeth properly.

Braces make brushing and flossing a lot more difficult than before. Food gets stuck more easily, and it becomes harder to remove them from those small spaces around the brackets. This can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and even gum issues. 

But if you follow a regular routine and use the right tools, you can keep your smile healthy throughout the whole process.

Why Is Oral Care More Challenging with Braces?

They consist of brackets and wires that make it difficult to clean your teeth. Food and plaque get trapped around these parts, and it can be difficult to remove them. So, what happens if you don’t clean your teeth properly? 

Plaque can turn into tartar, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Braces also make it difficult to floss between your teeth, leading to missed spots that could cause problems later.

The Right Tools for the Job

To maintain a healthy mouth with braces, use the following tools that help clean around the brackets and wires:

1. Toothbrush

The first tool to choose is a soft-bristled toothbrush. Choose one that is specifically designed for braces, as it will help clean the hard-to-reach areas around the brackets and wires. 

An electric toothbrush can also make brushing easier and more effective, but a manual toothbrush works well if you brush carefully.

2. Floss

Flossing can be tricky with braces, but it is essential. Regular floss may not fit well around the wires, so consider using orthodontic floss threaders or super floss. 

These tools help you guide the floss between your teeth and around the brackets. You can also use a water flosser, which is great for cleaning between the teeth and around your braces without hassle.

3. Interdental Brushes

These tiny brushes are perfect for cleaning between your braces and teeth. They’re especially helpful when you can’t get a regular toothbrush into tight spots.

4. Mouthwash

A good mouthwash can reach areas your toothbrush might miss. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid drying out your mouth, and make sure it’s designed to fight plaque and protect your gums.

How to Brush and Floss Effectively with Braces

Proper brushing and flossing will keep your teeth and gums in top shape.

Brushing Your Teeth

1. Start by brushing the outer and inner surfaces of your teeth first and then move your brush in small circular motions.
2. Don’t forget to clean around your braces. Use the tip of your brush to clean around the brackets and wires.
3. Brush your tongue as well to freshen your breath and remove bacteria.
4. Brush for at least two minutes, and make sure to do this after every meal to avoid food buildup.

Flossing with Braces

At the beginning you may find flossing difficult, but it actually helps in removing plaque that builds up between your teeth. Here’s how:

1. Use a floss threader to help guide the floss between the wire and your teeth.
2. Gently slide the floss up and down on each side of your teeth, making sure to get close to the gum line.
3. Flossing once a day should be enough to keep things clean.

What to Consider in Your Diet When You Have Braces

What you eat matters when you have braces. Some foods can damage your braces or get stuck in them, making cleaning more challenging.

Foods to Avoid

Stay away from:

• Sticky foods like caramel, gum, or taffy
• Hard foods such as nuts, popcorn, and ice
• Crunchy or chewy snacks that could break your wires or brackets

These foods can cause problems like broken braces or food getting stuck between your teeth and brackets, which makes it harder to clean properly.

Foods to Enjoy

Instead, go for softer foods like:

• Cooked vegetables
• Soft fruits (think bananas, berries, or applesauce)
• Dairy products like yogurt and cheese
• Soft grains like oatmeal

These foods are easier on your braces and won’t cause too much trouble when you’re cleaning your teeth.

Common Issues You May Experience With Braces.

You may experience some common issue while you are wearing braces, such as:

Sore Gums and Mouth: Try to use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp spots on your braces. Warm saltwater rinses can also help soothe discomfort.

Loose Brackets or Wires: If you found your brackets are loose, put a small piece of wax on it to keep it from hurting the inside of your mouth.

Bad Breath: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away food particles and keep your mouth moist.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, consult your orthodontist in Ahwatukee. They will assess your issues and guide you through the steps to follow to reduce the discomfort. 

After Braces: Maintaining Long-Term Oral Health

Once your braces are removed, it is important to keep your teeth clean and aligned. Your orthodontist will give you a retainer to help maintain the position of your teeth. Continue with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups to keep your smile healthy and bright.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your teeth while wearing braces may take a bit more effort. If you have concerns about your orthodontic treatment, contact Woolaver Orthodontics in Ahwatukee Phoenix, AZ 85044. Our experienced team will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your treatment. 

Schedule your consultation today and let us help you make your smile healthy and beautiful.