It can be a noteworthy investment in improving your oral health and smile. Braces for teens require proper care and attention to promote their effectiveness.
Orthodontic care for braces might seem overwhelming initially. But you can become a pro at caring for them with various tips. Here are five tips for taking care of your braces:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Food particles can get trapped in the brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup and potential cavities. Brushing after every meal and before bed is recommended to keep your teeth and braces clean.
A soft toothbrush can be perfect for cleaning braces as it can get into those hard-to-reach areas.
You can invest in an interdental toothbrush designed to clean between the brackets and under the wires of your braces.
Flossing can be more challenging with braces. But it’s still an indispensable part of your oral hygiene routine. Use an orthodontic or floss threader designed for braces to clean between your teeth and around the wires and brackets.
Rinsing with mouthwash can reach areas that brushing and flossing might miss. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride to strengthen your tooth enamel.
2. Watch Your Diet
Certain foods can damage your braces. Hard, crunchy foods like popcorn and nuts can break or dislodge your braces. Sticky or chewy foods like gum and gummies can get stuck in your braces and be difficult to remove.
Sugary drinks and foods can lead to cavities. Opt for softer foods and cut more oversized items into bite-sized pieces to prevent damage to your braces. Braces for teens require careful interactions with food to avoid ruining wires and brackets.
3. Have Regular Check-ups
Regular appointments allow your orthodontist to check on your progress, adjust your braces, and address any issues or concerns you may have.
Contact your orthodontist immediately if you notice any problems between appointments, such as loose brackets or broken wires. Don’t wait for your next meeting; these issues could impact your treatment plan.
4. Use Orthodontic Wax
If your braces are rubbing and causing discomfort, orthodontic wax can provide relief by creating a smooth barrier between your braces and the inside of your mouth.
You can pinch off a small piece of wax, roll it into a ball, and press it onto the offending bracket or wire. If the wax comes off while eating or sleeping, it is safe to swallow.
5. Protect Your Braces
Protecting your braces is necessary if you participate in sports or physical activities. A sudden blow to the face could damage your braces and injure your mouth.
During the exercises, you can use a mouthguard designed explicitly for mounts. These mouthguards buffer your braces and your cheeks or lips, reducing the risk of injury.
Explore the Impact of Braces for Teens Today
Braces for teens can be a game changer. They not only straighten teeth and improve oral health but may also help to enhance self-esteem and confidence.
An orthodontist can uate your smile and create a treatment plan for the best results. Start your search for a reliable orthodontist today.