The best way to ensure a clean and healthy smile is brushing and flossing. Food particles can accumulate on teeth and in braces, and over time, turn into plaque. The bacteria that results from this accumulation can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even loss of teeth. To avoid these problems while you are in orthodontic treatment, take special care of your braces, teeth and gums to ensure you will have the best possible result.
Taking Care of Your Braces
Brushing
Brush thoroughly in the morning after breakfast and before bedtime. You may need to replace your toothbrush more often due to more wear from the braces. As soon as the bristles start to wear down or fray, replace the toothbrush.
Flossing
For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach, use dental floss to remove food particles and plaque. Flossing takes more time and patience when you are wearing braces, but it is important to floss your teeth every day.
Foods to Avoid
Hard Crunchy Foods:
Ice, nuts, hard candies, whole fruits or vegetables (unless cut into pieces), corn on the cob, French bread, bagels
Sticky Foods:
Laffy taffy, Skittles, Tootsie Rolls, caramels, Starbursts
Be cautious with the following foods:
Crunchy tacos, chips, hard edges of pizza crust, sugary foods, soda, and sports drinks
Chewing sugar-free gum with braces on is perfectly acceptable.