How to Brush and Floss Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment
If you have crooked or crowded teeth, Drs. Burgess and Henry may recommend braces. Getting braces requires dedication on your part. Caring for your teeth while wearing braces will take a little more time. However, the end results are well worth the effort.
Braces and other orthodontic appliances can attract plaque and food, which can stain the teeth if it is not removed. Our orthodontists may recommend brushing your teeth after every meal or snack, carefully removing any food that is stuck in your braces. Brush using a soft toothbrush. Brush down from the top and up from the bottom of each tooth. Next, use a proxabrush, which is also called a Christmas tree brush, to clean between your braces. Between each set of brackets, insert the brush from the top to the bottom and then from the bottom to the top, using several strokes in each direction. There is also a special procedure for flossing with braces. Insert the short end of the floss between the main arch wire and the part of the tooth closest to the gums. Use a gentle sawing motion to work the floss between the teeth. Be very careful around the arch wire.
For those wearing braces, most foods can still be eaten as long as they are cut into small pieces. However, some foods can damage braces and should be avoided, including:
– Hard foods that are hard to bite
– Corn on the cob
– Popcorn, nuts, carrots, and hard pretzels
– Chewy foods
Do not chew ice or bubble gum with braces, as these habits can damage your appliance.
Feel free to contact Ortho 360 today to learn more and to schedule a consultation. We look forward to seeing you!