It doesn’t matter whether you are a child or an adult, sometimes having braces is just a part of life that you have to deal with. It can be frustrating at first but it is important to keep in mind that they are making a difference and that you are on your way to a better smile. When you have braces, you need to pay extra special attention to your oral health to ensure both your teeth and your braces stay in good condition. Here is how to take care of your braces.

Brush More Than Regularly

While it is important to brush your teeth twice a day, morning and night, when you have braces it is a worthwhile idea to brush your teeth after everytime you eat, even if it’s just a small snack. This is because food debris is far more likely to get trapped in your brackets which can go on to cause oral health problems if they are not removed. The longer food particles stay in your mouth, the higher chance you have of that piece of food turning into a dental problem. Start your brushing routine by rinsing your mouth with water to loosen any trapped food then holding your brush at a 45-degree angle, brush at the gum line of your teeth. After this, clean the brackets of your braces at a downward angle at the top of the bracket and then an upward angle at the bottom of the bracket. Be as thorough as possible and clean each tooth individually. Rinse your mouth again once you’re done with this process. This is an important part of keeping both your braces and your teeth in good condition so it is worth making sure you have your toothbrush and toothpaste with you so that you can clean your teeth regardless of where you are.

Floss

Flossing is an important part of any oral hygiene routine but it is particularly important when you wear braces. Flossing ensures that you remove any smaller food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach or dislodge. Make sure to floss once a day and Be gentle when flossing and make sure to move your flossing tape slowly and carefully. Flossing too aggressively can damage your braces, causing pain and irritation. While flossing can be difficult while wearing braces, it shouldn’t be put off. If regular flossing tape is proving too hard to use, try using floss threaders.

Have Regular Check-Ups

It is essential when you have braces that you have regular check-ups with both your orthodontist and your dentist. Your orthodontist will tighten and adjust your braces to ensure that they are functioning as they should be. You should also make sure to visit your orthodontist in the case that you are experiencing any severe oral pain or discomfort, or if you have any problems with broken parts.

Watch What You Eat

Make sure that your diet is tooth and braces-friendly and that you check with your orthodontist and dentist about what foods to avoid while wearing braces. An excess of sugary or processed foods can lead to a build-up of plaque that could stain your teeth and cause damage to their integrity.