Wearing any type of brace – whether it be metal or clear - will require you to take good care of them. If you have had any friends or relatives who have undergone orthodontic treatment previously, you may recall times when they had to avoid certain types of foods. When wearing braces, you should brush your teeth thoroughly to get rid of any food which may be trapped in between your teeth. It is important to keep your mouth, braces and teeth clean when wearing braces, to prevent the build-up of plaque, tooth decay and decalcification.
Foods to Avoid
It may be wise to stick to eating softer foods to prevent your brace from breaking. Sticky, chewy and sugary foods in particular should be avoided, especially chewing gum. Not only can this damage your teeth but it can also result in spoiling the braces, which could result in a very costly consequence. Three foods in particular to avoid whilst wearing braces are:
1) Chewing gum – as this can get stuck all around your braces
2) Apples and other hard fruit – they are hard and can break the brackets or wires
3) Fizzy drinks – These are high in acid, and can cause erosion and tooth decay
As you are trying to get used to your braces, it may be a good idea to cut your food into smaller pieces, so that it does not get stuck. Food can very easily build up within the brackets, making it difficult to clean. Some orthodontists may advise to drink through a straw, to reduce the risk of staining.
Keeping Your Braces Clean
Cleaning your braces should be an essential part of your morning and night time routine. Using a fluoride toothpaste can help to control plaque, whilst also keeping your breath fresh. Either manual or electric toothbrushes may be used, as long as you take special care. Your orthodontist will be able to advise you on additional cleaning tools, like interdental brushes which are designed to clean in between your wires and brackets.
If you have a removable brace, you may need to brush it gently before rinsing it out, and it may be necessary to soak it in a special solution. Your orthodontist will be able to advise you further on this. Keeping your braces and teeth clean will ensure that oral problems will be kept to a minimum, and once your braces come off you will be left with a healthy smile.
Oldham Orthodontics provide a range of braces to suit your needs, and are able to offer further advice on how to maintain your braces, and keep your teeth clean. For more information, you can give them a call on 0161 622 0987.
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