Having braces is a journey toward a stunning smile. While it may present some temporary oral hygiene challenges, the end result is worth it. Because of their intricate design, braces can trap food, leading to plaque build-up and other dental issues, like cavities and gingivitis. But fear not; we're here to guide you! Read on for some invaluable tips on maintaining your oral health with braces, and remember, the effort you put in now will lead to a radiant smile in the future.

Brushing & Flossing

·     Take your time! Do not rush the process – make sure you get every tooth thoroughly.

·     Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too.

·     After brushing, examine your teeth and braces in the mirror and look for any remaining food particles.

·     Using a water flosser can also help remove food particles that are stuck in between your teeth.

·     Finish your routine by swishing with an antimicrobial mouthwash that includes fluoride, like Listerine Total Care.

Additional Care Tips

Braces are an investment, and taking care of them goes beyond brushing and flossing. Proper care while wearing braces not only enhances their effectiveness but can also reduce the duration of wear. Keep these additional tips in mind.

·     Use a mouthguard when playing sports to protect your mouth from cuts and to prevent damage to brackets and wires.

·     If your braces become damaged, such as a bracket becoming unattached or a wire snapping, contact your orthodontist right away.

·     Avoid foods that can damage your braces and/or get stuck in your teeth, such as popcorn, sticky and hard candies, gum, corn on the cob, pretzels, bagels, and ice.

·     Drinking more water and rinsing your mouth with water often can help dislodge food particles. Additionally, water can prevent teeth and braces from getting stained by sugary and colored foods and drinks.

·     Always keep a portable toothbrush with you so you can brush after eating when not at home.

 Lastly, visit your dentist and orthodontist regularly. While you have braces, you will probably need to visit your orthodontist every four to eight weeks. The frequency of visits depends on your individual situation, including the type of treatment you have chosen and the stage of your treatment.

A trip to the orthodontist doesn’t cancel out your need to visit the general dentist, though! Routine check-ups are essential for detecting cavities and signs of gum disease. Your dentist can also administer frequent fluoride treatments to offer additional protection to tooth surfaces from decay while you’re wearing braces.

Lucky for you, Gettysburg Dental Associates offers orthodontics and general dentistry under one roof! Contact us today to make an appointment with Dr. David Fiero, Orthodontist.

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