Standard braces are to be worn for a period of six months to two years. During this time it’s important to note that your dental routine is in need of changing. While most of what you’ve been doing will stay the same, you will have to be more diligent when caring for your teeth and braces.
Get Your Brush On
Your San Diego-Eastlake orthodontists would advise brushing after every other meal or snack with fluoride toothpaste. Ideally, brush after every meal but brushing after having eaten acidic foods can nip away at tooth enamel. It’s important to brush more than twice a day to rid your mouth of any food that may be stuck in between your teeth. A buildup of food means more plaque and bacteria in your mouth, which can lead to gum disease. Using mouthwash or an airflosser are both advisable to get rid of food from hard to reach places.
How to Floss & Brush
Going about your typical hygiene routine can be a bit awkward when you’re wearing braces. To floss you’ll need to pull the floss through the space between the main arch and the upper portion of the tooth closest to the gum. Once in position gently move the floss back and forth. When brushing, be sure to use a soft bristle brush. Start your brushing motion at the top of your tooth before moving down. Focus on an individual tooth before moving to the next. After this is done, use a zig zag motion to remove the remaining plaque, tartar, and food from your teeth.
Don’t Eat That
When donning braces you’ll have to be more selective when it comes to the type of food you eat. You’ll want to avoid any food that has a chance of moving your braces out of place. Also avoid any foods that have a high probability of getting stuck in your braces. Say goodbye to popcorn and Milk Duds.
