As you begin thinking about New Year’s resolutions, why not add braces care to your list? Regardless of your New Year’s resolutions, appliance care is an important part of your overall dental care. We would like to offer you the following tips on how you can incorporate better orthodontic appliance care into your New Year schedule. In addition to braces, there are other services like getting porcelain crowns that can help improve your smile. People who have missing teeth may seek prosthodontist treatment to restore their full smile.

Brushing Technique

Proper brushing technique is instrumental for brace hygiene. Keeping your teeth and braces clean and free from food debris and plaque buildup is important. Not only will this help keep you cavity-free, but it will also prevent gum inflammation and infections.

Here is a quick look at some of the more important brushing techniques to consider:

• Gently brush at a 45-degree angle, both above and below each bracket, ensuring that the bristles get under the wire.
• Make sure to thoroughly brush the chewing surfaces of each tooth, as well as your tongue.
• An orthodontic toothbrush may make the job easier as it is designed to brush some of the harder-to-reach areas in your mouth.

Remember:

Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush. A soft-bristled brush will not damage your enamel or your braces. Make sure to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months because bacteria does collect on the toothbrush and the bristles do wear out.

Flossing

Although it is time-consuming, it is very important to floss your teeth. Plaque will cause inflammation to build up between your teeth. This will slow down the rate your teeth move and result in longer treatment.

Food Choices

Food choices are as important as brushing when it comes to braces. With the holidays passed, now is a good time to review what you should and should not be eating.

Here are some of the main culprits that can damage your braces and are definitely not brace-friendly:

• Hard and sticky candies – these candies can not only get stuck in your braces, but they can damage or break wires and pop braces right off.
• Nuts, chips, popcorn, and chewing ice – all of these foods can also damage your braces.

Request a Complimentary Consultation Today!

By paying attention to your braces and following a detailed brushing routine, your overall orthodontic experience should be a positive one. The less damage and stress you put on your braces over their lifetime, the sooner you will be able to take them off and enjoy that beautiful, straight smile. If you would like any more information or a refresher on how to take care of your braces, contact our office request your complimentary consultation.