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Orthodontic Care

If you don’t invest a little extra time in caring for your braces, you might find unsightly white spots on your teeth once the braces are removed or end up with severe oral conditions you could’ve prevented.

The tips below will help you maintain excellent oral hygiene and stop any issues in their tracks during and after your orthodontic treatment.

What Oral Problems Does Poor Oral Hygiene Cause?

Neglecting oral hygiene while wearing braces can lead to several issues, such as:

  • Decalcification: White spots that appear on your teeth because plaque causes enamel to lose minerals. These stains will stay a part of your teeth forever.
  • Gum Disease: Poor brushing can cause your gums to become inflamed and bleed.
  • Advanced Periodontitis: If untreated, gum disease can progress to a more severe stage. Plaque can accumulate around your gums until it reaches the tooth roots and damages the bone that supports your teeth.

How to Brush with Braces

  • Choose fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush in good condition.
  • Brush all parts of your braces and every surface of your teeth, including fronts, sides, backs, tongue, and roof of your mouth.
  • Brush your gums carefully and thoroughly.
  • Rinse after you’re done brushing.
  • Use a well-lit mirror to inspect your teeth and braces, ensuring they are clean and checking for any loose or broken brackets.

How to Floss with Braces

  • Floss every night before bed when you have more time.
  • Use a floss threader to get dental floss under your archwire.
  • Clean thoroughly along and under the gumlines.

Other Ways to Clean Your Teeth with Braces

  • Interproximal Brush: Use this tool to clean under your archwire, removing plaque and food debris around your brackets.
  • Prescription Fluoride Toothpaste or Rinse: If Dr. Dyer recommends it, use these products once a day to strengthen and protect your teeth.
  • Electric Toothbrush or Water Flosser: These devices make cleaning your teeth and braces more efficient and effective.

When Is It Best to Clean Your Teeth and Braces?

  • Brush well after every meal or snack. If you can’t brush right away, rinse your mouth with water.
  • Keep a travel toothbrush with you for brushing when you’re not at home.
  • Every day, make sure to thoroughly brush your teeth and braces until they are completely clean, and then floss. This might take a little extra time, so try doing it at night before you go to sleep.

Book Your Consultation at Dyer Orthodontics for More Information

If you have any questions or are ready to start your orthodontic treatment, contact us today to schedule an appointment!