The Importance of Dental Hygiene with Braces

Here’s a simple summary of all those rules and regulations while wearing your braces: keep on taking good care of your teeth!

Your orthodontist likely loaded you up with all sorts of paperwork when your braces were first put on. But since it’s a lot to take in, here’s a simple summary of all those rules and regulations: keep on taking good care of your teeth!

Although your braces are doing their part to straighten your teeth, you’ll still need to do your part and focus on general dental care, which means regular brushing, not just in the morning and evening.

Since it’s so easy for food to get lodged behind your braces throughout the day, it’s important to brush at least three or four times during the day, especially after meals. Then, use a fluoride rise in the evening to strengthen teeth and reduce the build-up of potential decay spots overnight.

We suggest brushing for at least two minutes with a soft-bristle or bi-level brush, reaching as much of the tooth surface as possible but also reaching the wires and brackets. Electric toothbrushes can also help.  

Flossing is also an important way to get to food that a toothbrush can reach. Even though braces can make flossing more of a challenge, it’s still vital to do so at least once a day.

Finally, be sure to schedule regular check-ups and cleaning with your dentist, since he or she will be able to keep an eye on the condition of your teeth and tissue. These preventative appointments are recommended every six months.

This month is an excellent time to remember the responsibilities of not just taking care of braces but taking care of your teeth and gums in general: October is National Dental Hygiene Month, an opportunity to practice good habits, including regular brushing, flossing, chewing and rinsing.  

The American Dental Association said all of these ingredients are essential to creating a great smile.

Please contact us for any questions or suggestions for better dental care, including smaller cleaning tools to help make brushing easier.   

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