Your daily hygiene routine with braces is very important. Taking care of your teeth while wearing any type of orthodontic appliances will ensure your teeth and gums are healthy once your treatment is complete. If you aren’t following proper home care, you may find once the braces come off you have swollen gums, stained teeth, and possible enamel damage.
Our team at William R. Kincer DMD wants your journey with braces to be a success, so here are some easy ways to care for your teeth at home.
Brush Every Day
Brushing twice a day with braces is essential, but if you can do it after every meal that’s even better. This will remove food debris from sitting on your teeth for long periods of time. If you don’t have access to a brush, give your mouth a good rinse with water until you get home.
The positioning of your brush can make a big difference as well. Placing your brush on your teeth at a 45 degree angle will make it more effective in cleaning away food and plaque from the teeth, gums and around the braces. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes and don’t forget the inner and chewing surfaces as well.
Floss Every Day
Flossing regularly should also be added to your daily routine. This will help to remove debris from between the teeth and under the gums. This will also minimize any inflammation and irritation of the gum tissues. Specialized flossing tools or water flossers can be used to help make flossing with braces much simpler.
If you are living in the Marietta area, contact our office for all of your orthodontic needs.