Keeping up with good dental hygiene practices while wearing braces is of utmost importance.
Wearing braces offers an effective way to straighten your teeth, but you might also end up having a higher risk of developing dental problems without proper hygiene. Braces can allow bacteria and plaque to build up on the surfaces of your teeth and between them, resulting in an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Keep the following dental hygiene practices in mind to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy while you wear braces.
Brushing
Brushing your teeth thoroughly helps remove food particles that can attract bacteria. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day, especially after meals. Before you brush, you should take removable parts of your braces off. While brushing, move the brush in a circular motion over your tooth surfaces and around your braces to get rid of food particles that might be stuck. Consider rinsing with water a few times per day, such as before brushing, to lower your risk of dealing with stuck food particles.
Flossing
Flossing is an important part of protecting your gums from inflammation and gum disease. Getting between your teeth can be difficult when you wear braces, so you should follow your orthodontist’s instructions on flossing while wearing these orthodontic appliances. You should floss between your teeth at least once per day or more often as needed, such as when you have food stuck between your teeth.
Routine Cleanings and Checkups
Routine dental cleanings help ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy while you have braces. You should have these cleanings done twice a year or as often as your orthodontist recommends. These cleanings are essential for thoroughly eliminating plaque and tartar from your teeth so that they won’t lead to tooth decay. You should also go for regular orthodontic visits as often as needed.
If you need to schedule orthodontic care in the Asheville area, please contact Roeder Orthodontics to set up an appointment.