Maintaining Your Braces

Properly maintaining the braces not only makes treatment more comfortable, but can prevent injuries or emergencies and even possibly shorten treatment time.

Brushing and flossing remain as important as ever (if not more so) once braces are placed. Special care will have to be taken when brushing teeth with braces on, and flossing will be a little different since it will have to be done around the wires and brackets, but this is easily managed after some practice. Continuing good oral hygiene practices also reduces the risk of developing tooth decay while undergoing treatment.

Special attention should be taken in what foods are eaten, as some can not only be bad for the teeth, but can damage the braces. Hard, crunchy and sticky, sweet foods should be avoided. Harder fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots should be cut up before eating. A mouth guard should be worn during any physical activity such as sports.

More frequent visits to the dentist will be necessary to check up on and maintain the braces. If any problems occur, such as a bracket coming loose, it’s important to see the orthodontist as soon as possible to get it fixed.