Oral Hygiene Tips for People with Braces

Getting braces is an exciting step towards achieving a beautiful, straight smile. But it also means stepping up your oral hygiene game to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Granbury Park Dental in Granbury, TX is here to share some essential tips to help you navigate this journey with ease and confidence.

Brush Thoroughly and Often

Braces create lots of little spaces where food particles and plaque can hide, making it crucial to brush after every meal. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean around the brackets and wires. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to effectively clean along the gumline and brackets. Don’t forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth for a complete clean!

Floss Daily (and Consider a Water Flosser)

Flossing can be a bit more challenging with braces, but it’s essential for removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to navigate around the wires. Additionally, a water flosser, like a Waterpik, can be a fantastic addition to your oral hygiene routine. It uses a stream of water to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and around your braces, making it easier to reach areas that traditional floss might miss. Taking the time to floss daily, with either method, helps prevent gum disease and cavities.

Use Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes, also known as proxy brushes, are tiny brushes designed to clean between your teeth and braces. These brushes are perfect for reaching spots that your regular toothbrush might miss. They’re easy to use and can help keep your braces free of debris.

Rinse with Mouthwash

An antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean and fresh. Rinsing with mouthwash can reach areas your toothbrush and floss can’t, reducing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation. Choose a mouthwash that’s alcohol-free to avoid drying out your mouth.

Avoid Certain Foods

Some foods can damage your braces or make cleaning them more difficult. Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods like caramel, nuts, and popcorn. Cut fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat. By being mindful of your diet, you can protect your braces and maintain better oral hygiene.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular visits to Granbury Park Dental are essential for maintaining oral health during your orthodontic treatment. Dr. Paul Froude and the team will check for any potential issues and give your teeth a professional cleaning to keep them in top shape. They can also provide personalized advice on caring for your braces.

Granbury Park Dental in Granbury, TX

At Granbury Park Dental in Granbury, TX, we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Dr. Paul Froude and our team are here to support you every step of the way during your orthodontic journey. Whether you need tips on maintaining your braces or a routine check-up, we’re here to provide expert care and advice.

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy while wearing braces requires a little extra effort, but it’s well worth it. By following these oral hygiene tips, you can ensure that your smile will be bright and beautiful when the braces come off. Trust the team at Granbury Park Dental to help you achieve the best results!

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Categorised in: Oral Hygiene