Oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it becomes even more important when you’re wearing braces. Braces make it harder to clean your teeth, and if you don’t take the proper steps to care for your teeth and gums, you can end up with a variety of dental problems. Here are some tips to help you maintain good oral hygiene while wearing braces. 

Brush your teeth after every meal

Brushing your teeth after every meal is the most important part of your oral hygiene routine. When you’re wearing braces, it can be tricky to reach all the nooks and crannies around your braces, so it’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and move the brush in a circular motion to make sure you get all the areas. If you have braces with wires, you may need to use a floss threader to get the floss in between the wires. 

Flossing 

Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth, and it can help you get rid of food debris and plaque that may have gotten stuck between the braces. Make sure to use a floss threader to get the floss in between the wires and move it in an up-and-down motion to remove any debris. 

Mouthwash

Mouthwash is a great way to help keep your gums healthy and reduce your risk of developing gum disease. Make sure to use an alcohol-free mouthwash that is specially formulated for people with braces, as some mouthwashes can corrode the metal of your braces. 

Regular dental visits 

Regular visits to your dentist are important to make sure your braces are working properly and your teeth and gums are healthy. Your dentist can also check for any signs of decay or gum disease and provide helpful tips for brushing and flossing with braces. Eating habits 

It’s important to be mindful of your eating habits when you have braces. Hard and sticky foods can damage your braces, so it’s best to avoid them. Foods like popcorn, nuts, hard candy and gum should be avoided, as well as crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots. 

These are just a few tips to help you maintain good oral hygiene while wearing braces. It’s important to take the time to brush and floss properly, and to visit your dentist regularly. By following these tips, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and your braces in good condition. For more helpful tips on how to take care of your teeth while wearing braces, please contact our children’s dental and orthodontics office.