Ensuring the Health of Your Teeth While Wearing Braces

Are you working with an orthodontist in Bradenton, FL to help improve the look and function of your teeth? Braces correct alignment issues and gaps in the teeth, as well as bite problems, but they can also help with other general oral health issues. Just make sure that you do your part as a patient to ensure the health of your teeth and gums so when the braces come off you’ve got gorgeous pearly whites to look forward to.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing need to be a number one priority when you have braces, and honestly, it’s harder than ever, what with the brackets and wires getting in the way! Brush your teeth at least three times a day, preferably after every meal, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Use the Right Tools

This can be fun, though, because you can use specialized dental tools to help keep your teeth and braces clean. Consider using interdental brushes—you can find them at the drugstore—which can clean between brackets, and a water flosser, which uses a gentle stream of water to clean.

Be Mindful of What You Eat

Your diet’s going to need attention, and not for weight loss, but to avoid eating things like sticky, chewy or hard foods that can get stuck in your braces or cause the wires and brackets to break.

Regular Check-ups and Cleanings

Don’t skip your regular orthodontic appointments. These visits allow your orthodontist to monitor the progress of your treatment and make adjustments to the braces as needed.

By following these tips, you can maintain good oral hygiene and ensure the health of your teeth while wearing braces in West Bradenton, FL, helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile at the end of your treatment.