Having braces means you’re on a journey towards a radiant smile, but it also means a new wave of responsibility. At Razi Orthodontics, we’re here to help you tackle this new responsibility head-on, guiding you through the essentials of braces care. Let’s explore some simple yet effective tips for cleaning your teeth with braces that’ll make sure your treatment leads to a stunning new smile!
Brushing Basics
We’ve been brushing our teeth since we were kids, or at least we should’ve been. But with braces, the game has changed! Brushing is the cornerstone of braces care, and while it may seem a little challenging, we’ve made it easy.
The Tools
First, we recommend adopting a thorough yet gentle brushing routine. Start by selecting a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, as these are kind on braces and tough on plaque.
The Motions
Aim to brush after almost every meal to prevent food particles from getting trapped in your braces. Cover all surfaces using a circular motion. This means brushing above and below the brackets, along the gum line, and the back sides of your teeth.
Brush for a total of two minutes, focusing on the different sides of your teeth for about 30 seconds. Don’t forget to brush the wires of your braces, as lingering food particles can hide all over. Consistency is key, so make sure brushing your teeth becomes a part of your daily routine for effective braces care.
Flossing & Mouthwash
Flossing and using mouthwash are just as important when it comes to braces care as they are before orthodontic treatment. Remember those lingering food particles we mentioned? Flossing and mouthwash are extra barriers against hidden food particles and plaque from building up between your teeth and braces.
Flossing
At Razi Orthodontics, we recommend a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate around the wires easily. Gently slide the floss between each set of teeth and along the gumline, carefully avoiding pulling with too much force on the wires.
Mouthwash
Mouthwash, especially with fluoride, is a great follow-up to brushing and flossing. It helps reach any areas your brushing and flossing might have missed, providing an extra layer of cleanliness and protection! Swish the mouthwash for about 30 seconds to make sure everything gets covered, then spit it out.
Now that you know how to properly brush, floss, and rinse with braces, you now have the foundation of braces care. These three will keep your braces and your teeth in tip-top shape as long as you stay consistent. But there are a few more tools and tricks that can help you keep your smile journey on track.
Invest In a Water Flosser
If you really want to take your braces care game to the next level, add a water flosser into your routine. It offers a special way to clean around your braces using, you guessed it, a stream of water to knock out food particles that brushing and flossing might have missed.
A water flosser helps to clean those hard-to-reach areas. When using the flosser, aim the stream of water as you would regularly floss. So, make sure to aim along the gums, between your teeth, and around the brackets and wires of your braces. This extra step ensures not only a deeper clean but also a refreshing feeling after use.
While a water flosser is a great addition to your braces care arsenal, it doesn’t replace the need for regular brushing and flossing.
Consistent Orthodontic Check-Ups
Coming to see us at Razi Orthodontics for your regular orthodontic check-ups plays a pivotal part in your braces care. These check-ups aren’t just for adjusting your braces; they’re important for monitoring your progress and keeping your treatment on track.
During these visits, Dr. Razi and the team will check the alignment of your teeth, adjust wires, and replace any worn-out bands. It’s also a great time to ask questions about any concerns or discomforts you may be having.
Regular check-ups help us spot potential issues early, allowing us to intervene quickly. These appointments are super important in helping you achieve the best treatment results.
Directing Your Diet
While brushing and flossing after each meal is important, it’s just as important to be mindful of the meal itself. Eating the right foods can prevent damage to your braces and boost your oral health.
Aim to eat softer foods that are gentle on your braces. Foods like cooked vegetables, soft fruits, and tender pieces of meat are all great choices. Also, cutting foods into smaller pieces can help protect your braces.
You’ll want to avoid any foods that are too hard or sticky, as these can pull and push against your braces, leading to broken wires and brackets. Be careful around sugary and starchy foods, as these can increase the risk of plaque buildup.
Remember, a braces-friendly diet isn’t just about protecting your braces. It’s also about making sure your teeth stay clean and healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Dealing With Damages
At Razi Orthodontics, we understand that accidents can happen, which is why we’re here to help guide you through them. If you’re experiencing discomfort, start by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water or use orthodontic wax to provide relief.
In the case of a loose bracket or wire, don’t panic! Cover any protruding parts with orthodontic wax and contact us to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Avoid DIY fixes, as they can lead to further problems.
To avoid any accidents, regularly check your braces for any signs of wear or damage to catch issues early. Dealing with small concerns quickly makes sure they don’t turn into major problems, keeping your dream smile on track.
New Smiles With Razi Orthodontics
Proper care and maintenance of your braces is important for a successful treatment. At Razi Orthodontics, our goal is to bring the smile of your dreams into a reality. If you have any questions or want to start your journey, give us a call or schedule your free consultation today! Together, we’ll help you along the path to a confident and stunning smile!