Things to Remember About Wearing Braces

Getting braces requires a daily commitment to ensure that the braces work properly while also maintaining good oral hygiene. You will need some time to get used to the braces, and they may be uncomfortable for a short time, but with proper maintenance and following a few simple guidelines, the time you spend using braces will go smoothly and produce the successful results you want. Let’s take a look at things you should or should not do while wearing braces.

Things You Should Do While Wearing Braces

First things first – you should maintain good oral hygiene practices. This means that you should brush your teeth three times daily and floss between your teeth at least once daily. When brushing, you should make sure to use a small circular motion and be sure to brush where your teeth and gums meet to avoid the build-up of plaque. You can also further protect your teeth by limiting the amount of sugar and acid you have in your diet, and you should use a fluoride rinse or paste before you go to bed. You also need to make sure you keep your regularly scheduled check-ups with your dentist.

Things to Avoid While Wearing Braces

In order for your braces to work properly, you need to be extremely careful about the food you eat. For example, hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can potentially knock off the brackets. You should also avoid chewing gum, which can get caught in your braces and be a nightmare to get out. Due to the higher acid content, you should try to avoid drinking pop, sports drinks, or natural juices, keeping them to a bare minimum. While you should brush your teeth, excessive scrubbing of the teeth can be counterproductive. You should also avoid chewing on things like pens, pencils, or your fingernails, as these can cause problems with your braces. The same is true of picking the brackets with your fingers. By avoiding these mistakes, you should not have to worry about serious problems with your braces.

Whether you are looking for treatment to straighten your children’s teeth or you are finally looking to fix your own smile, you can count on the experienced professionals at Bandeen Orthodontics in Three Rivers to help you get the smile you have always wanted. We pride ourselves on providing the best in patient care and make sure you are completely happy with the results. Call today to schedule an appointment.