Taking care of braces is essential to ensure that your treatment goes smoothly and that you achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you maintain your braces:
1. Brushing Your Teeth
How often: Brush at least three times a day — after meals and before bed.
Why: Food can get stuck in the brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup and cavities.
Steps:
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Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
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Brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
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Brush each tooth thoroughly, making sure to clean around brackets and wires.
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You may want to use a toothpaste with fluoride to prevent cavities.
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Electric toothbrushes are often recommended as they can remove more plaque.
2. Flossing
How often: Once a day, preferably at night.
Why: Braces create tight spaces that are hard to clean with just a regular toothbrush.
Steps:
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Use floss threaders or orthodontic floss.
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You can also try a water flosser to help clean between teeth.
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Floss gently, and make sure to get underneath the wires.
3. Rinsing with Mouthwash
How often: Once or twice a day, after brushing and flossing.
Why: Mouthwash helps to kill bacteria, fight plaque, and freshen breath.
Steps:
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Use alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid dryness.
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Swish the mouthwash around for 30 seconds and then spit it out.
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Look for mouthwash that also contains fluoride for added protection.
4. Avoid Certain Foods
What to avoid:
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Sticky foods like caramel, gum, and taffy that can get stuck on brackets.
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Hard foods like popcorn, nuts, and ice that can damage the braces.
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Chewy foods like bagels or tough meats, which can cause discomfort or damage.
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Sugary foods and drinks, as they increase plaque and risk of cavities.
Alternative options:
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Soft fruits, cooked vegetables, dairy, and pasta are safer choices.
5. Dealing with Discomfort
Why: When your braces are adjusted or tightened, you might feel soreness.
Tips for relief:
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Take over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen) if needed.
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Use orthodontic wax to cover any parts of the braces that irritate the inside of your mouth.
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Warm saltwater rinses can also help soothe sore spots.
6. Regular Orthodontic Appointments
How often: Every 4-8 weeks, depending on your orthodontist’s recommendation.
Why: Adjustments are made during these visits to keep your teeth moving in the right direction.
During visits:
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Ask the orthodontist about the progress and if there’s anything you should be doing differently.
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If any brackets or wires become loose, let your orthodontist know.
7. Protecting Your Braces During Physical Activity
When playing sports: Wear a mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth from potential damage.
Why: Braces can be easily damaged during physical activity, and you may also risk injury to your mouth.
8. Keeping Your Braces Clean
Daily maintenance:
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Wipe down the wires and brackets with a clean, damp cloth or toothbrush if food gets stuck.
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Use a soft toothbrush to clean your braces after each meal if you’re unable to brush immediately.
9. Retainers (After Braces)
Why: Once your braces are removed, your teeth will need a retainer to ensure they don’t shift back.
How to care for a retainer:
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Clean with a toothbrush and cool water.
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Keep the retainer in its case when you’re not wearing it.
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Avoid high heat, which can warp the plastic.
10. Emergency Care
What to do if things go wrong:
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Loose or broken brackets/wires: Use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp parts until you can see your orthodontist.
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Wire poking out: You can gently push it back with a pencil eraser or use wax to cover it temporarily.
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Discomfort from tightening: Ice packs, saltwater rinses, and soft foods can help with soreness.
Braces can feel like a lot of upkeep, but with patience, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful smile. It’s worth it, so stay committed to your care routine and be consistent!
