Depending on individual circumstances, most people need to wear braces for one to three years. Unfortunately, it takes as little as two to three weeks for issues such as gingivitis to appear. During your time with braces, you’ll need to keep your mouth as healthy as you can.
If you want clean braces and a healthy mouth, you can take a few simple steps. Let’s take a look at how visiting your Broomfield dental hygienist and a couple of easy daily steps can keep your mouth healthy.
Brush Regularly
Before you got braces, you probably brushed your teeth at least twice a day. Since food can hide in your braces, you’ll need to take more care when brushing. If you don’t brush properly, you could face tooth decay, gum disease, and white spots.
Now is the time to brush your teeth at least three times a day. If you can, brush your teeth after every meal.
Your braces can cause your toothbrush bristle to wear out quicker. Make sure to replace your toothbrush often. Using an electric toothbrush can make it easier to keep teeth clean.
An interdental brush can make it easier to brush around your brackets and wires. You can use one of these brushes to loosen debris before your regular brushing. Using a mirror can make it easier to make sure you get into the spaces between each bracket.
Remember to Floss
Flossing at least once a day is one of the most common oral hygiene tips. Unfortunately, it can be more difficult to floss when you have braces, leading many people to skip this step.
Luckily, orthodontic flossers and floss threaders can make it a lot easier to floss. You can find these at most drug stores. Using wax floss can also make the floss slide easier and prevent it from getting caught in your braces.
Another option is to use a water flosser. These reduce the hassle of flossing while still providing the same benefits.
Add a Rinse
Adding an antiseptic rinse can make keeping a healthy mouth with braces easier. You can fight gingivitis and protect your enamel.
Before brushing, rinse your mouth with water to loosen any trapped food. After brushing, rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. This can reduce inflammation and biofilm that could lead to gingivitis or periodontal disease.
Keep Your Braces Safe
If you play sports, make sure to wear a mouth guard to protect your braces and teeth. Unconscious habits such as biting your fingernails or chewing on pen lids can also damage your braces. Try to avoid these habits or use other distractions, such as using a fidget spinner.
When you first got your braces, your orthodontist probably gave you some foods to avoid or ways to avoid eating. Make sure to follow these and any other directions you received.
Get Help from Your Broomfield Dental Hygienist
Going to regular dental appointments is key when you have braces. Your dental hygienist will be able to professionally clean your teeth and teach you the best techniques for how to clean braces.
Your dentist will also be able to spot any signs that could point to problems before they become worse. Similarly, make sure to go to all of your orthodontist appointments and call if you have any questions or concerns.
Keep Your Mouth Healthy with Braces
By brushing, flossing, and rinsing regularly, you’ll be able to keep your braces clean and your mouth healthy. Regular visits to your Broomfield dental hygienist at Smile Logic will also help make sure your teeth are taken care of.
Call Smile Logic or schedule your appointment online to keep your mouth healthy.
SmileLogic, Inc. has been serving Colorado with first-class dental hygiene services for over 15 years.