After Dr. Lynskey places your braces, maintaining them and your oral health requires a new level of care and attention. It may take a little getting used to, but we’ll help you know what to do to keep your braces in top condition throughout your orthodontic treatment.
The importance of thorough care
Proper oral hygiene may be a bit more difficult with braces, which makes it essential you develop best practices to keep your braces, teeth, and mouth clean and healthy. Taking good care of your smile prevents dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and demineralization.
If left untreated, these problems can cause more serious oral health issues, and they can prolong your orthodontic treatment.
Guidelines for oral care with braces
- Brush three times daily (after every meal). Brush after a sugary snack. Carry a toothbrush and toothpaste in your backpack or briefcase for easy brushing.
- Interproximal brushes help clean brackets and wires. It’s like a toothpick with bristles on one end and cleans areas your toothbrush can’t reach due to braces.
- Floss daily with a floss threader that lets you thread floss behind braces wires to reach every crevice.
- Every time you brush, rinse with water. Your needs may require a special rinse depending or your specific needs.
- Avoiding certain foods such as popcorn or chewing gum to help keep your smile healthy and avoid damage to your braces.
Have more questions about maintaining good oral hygiene with braces? Contact our Santa Rosa office today.