Did you know that a normal teeth cleaning can easily cost $200? Oral hygiene issues can quickly become expensive problems. If you have braces, it's vital you keep your teeth in good shape by taking the time to care for them! But how do you look after teeth that are covered in braces? Fortunately, there are plenty of ways and a lot of tips to keep fillings and staining at bay. Read on to find out more!
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Whether you have braces or not, you should always be brushing your teeth twice a day, every day! If you're used to brushing your teeth before breakfast, you might want to switch that up now. Food can easily get stuck in your braces, so a brush after eating is a good idea.
Floss Your Teeth Daily
After you get braces, it's not just in the metal that food can get trapped! The gaps between your teeth are also an easy spot for crumbs to hide away and become lodged, which is why flossing is a must. Try to floss at least once a day, using eco-friendly floss to carry out proper dental care without harming the planet.
Try an Interdental Brush
If you don't enjoy using floss, try an interdental brush. This handy little tool is perfect for removing bits of food trapped under brace wires or between your teeth. To use it, simply slide the brush beneath the brackets of your braces and move up and down before running it along the wires between the brackets.
These are also great to take with you when you're on the go. Keep an interdental brush handy, and make sure you can always get into the tricky areas of your braces!
Steer Clear of Whitening Products
Any pediatric dental professional will tell you to avoid whitening toothpaste and any other products that aim to change the color of your teeth while you're wearing braces. This is because the products are only going to work on the exposed areas of your pearly whites, leaving the areas under your braces unaffected.
When your braces are removed, you're likely to have some odd coloring! The sections of your teeth under the braces will probably be more yellow, which might not be the look you were going for. If you do use a whitening toothpaste or mouthwash accidentally, rinse your mouth out with water immediately. It's unlikely that one use will make much of a difference, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Choose a Soft Bristled Toothbrush
Brushing your teeth when you have braces is definitely something you have to get used to, but after a few go's, it'll become easier. You can also make it a simpler task by opting for a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help you to brush gently, keep your braces safe and secure while you're wearing them, and prevent any teeth or gum damage.
Don't Overbrush Your Teeth
The bristles of your toothbrush shouldn't become squashed as you use them - at least not straight away. Over time the bristles will lose their shape, but they shouldn't become flattened in just a month. If they do, you're brushing far too hard!
Try making an effort to brush gentler when you're wearing braces. This will prevent damage to the metal and keep erosion of your enamel at bay.
Start Using Mouthwash
If you haven't already, it's time to invest in a good mouthwash! Dental tips always include adding mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine; if you have braces, the advice is no different. It's the best way to ensure your teeth and gums are completely clean after you've finished brushing and will help your breath stay fresher for longer.
We recommend using mouthwash twice a day after each time you brush your teeth.
Rinse Your Mouth Out After Food
Anyone with braces will know that they're traps for food. To avoid having bits of your lunch stuck in your metal brackets, rinse your mouth out with water after you eat in exactly the same way you'd use mouthwash. Swill the water thoroughly, helping it pick up any trapped morsels.
It's a good idea to have a little pocket mirror with you when you're on the go. After you've swilled your water, you can check that there's no remaining food that's still stuck! If there is a bit that's tougher to remove, use an interdental brush to get rid of it.
Maintain Oral Hygiene With Regular Check-Ups
If you want to keep your pearly whites in good shape while you wear braces, make sure to get a check-up regularly. Professional dental services are the best way to spot any issues early and fix them before they become major problems! Speak to your dentist about how frequently you need to come in and book your appointments in advance to ensure you don't miss them.
A dentist or orthodontist can check your braces thoroughly. They'll make sure they're working as they should and that you're taking care of them properly. They'll also check your teeth to make sure your new routine is working to keep them clean and healthy!
Book in With Carolina Braces
Whether you're looking to get braces or have an oral hygiene check-up, our team at Carolina Braces can help. We offer the highest standard of care to adults and children with braces, maintaining the health of your teeth while straightening them.
Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation. We can't wait to see you!
