add_filter("wpseo_robots", function($robots) { if (is_paged()) { return 'noindex,follow'; } else { return $robots; } });

5 Ways to Care For Your Braces

by | Jun 1, 2020 | Orthodontics

Caring for your braces may require caution and extra mindfulness, but with a little bit of effort, you can prevent breakage or damage to your braces. Here are 5 ways you can care for your braces.

1. See a Professional Regularly

While your orthodontist will ensure that your braces are regularly maintained, seeing your dentist regularly is also important, as using braces can increase your risk of cavities. Keeping in contact with both your dentist and orthodontist ensures that all aspects of your dental health are cared for.

2. Choose Good Tools

To care for your braces, use the right tools. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush that will not damage your braces is best. Also, an inter-ortho brush can be handy for cleaning in between the wires and your teeth. Lastly, a floss threader can help floss around your braces.

3. Use a Fork and Knife

It may be tempting to cut corners and take a good bite of pizza, but using a fork and knife to cut it down into bite-sized pieces is an important way to care for your braces. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples or corn on the cob can also benefit from the use of a knife and fork.

Biting down on food this way also pushes food up and behind the wires on your braces, making it harder to clean your teeth and gums.

4. Practice Caution

One way to care for your braces is to be aware of other habits that may damage braces or brackets, such as chewing on pens or pencils, biting fingernails, or opening packages with your teeth.

5. Eat Mindfully

Avoid foods like popcorn, or crunchy food that hasn’t been cut into bite-sized pieces. Gum, hard candies, and other treats can damage wires and brackets, causing more trouble than they are worth. Choose softer treats, like chocolate, that melt and soften in the mouth. This small change is a big way to care for your braces.

Archives