Braces can help straighten your teeth quickly and safely, but if you don’t practice good oral hygiene while you have braces, food and plaque can build up in the spaces between your brackets. Here at Olson Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontic treatments should not only straighten your teeth but improve your overall oral health as well so we’ve put together our top hygiene tips for keeping your teeth clean while you have braces!
Brushing Is Key
Whatever type of braces you have, the best way to keep your teeth clean while you have braces is to double down on your regular oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing. While brushing may not feel the same, it is even more important that you brush your teeth at least twice a day to avoid bad breath and tooth decay!
You Can Still Floss!
You may be wondering how you are supposed to floss with metal wires in your mouth—here at Olson Orthodontics we are proud to say that it can be done and we will give you the tools and training you need. In your treatment we include what are called floss threaders and proxabrushes to help you floss. You can also buy a floss threader at your local drug store for getting underneath those wires and a proxabrush for getting those tough spots next to your brackets.
Clean After Meals
The easiest time to get food out of your braces is right after eating, not after it has sat around in your teeth all day. Give your teeth a quick brush after meals to remove food before it hardens and becomes difficult to remove! If you get something stuck in your braces, call your orthodontist in Verrado or Litchfield Park and we will guide you through the process of getting it out.
Bring A To-Go Kit
If you are going to keep your braces fresh and looking clean, you need to be prepared to clean your teeth wherever you are. Whether it is at school, the office, or an overnight trip, we will provide you with a travel kit so you keep your teeth clean on the go!
Schedule An Appointment With Your Orthodontist in Litchfield Park & Verrado/Buckeye!
When you have braces you must visit your orthodontist in Litchfield Park and Verrado regularly to check up on your progress and to clean out any food that has gotten stuck. You will also need to continue to see your general dentist at regular intervals for check-ups and cleanings. Contact Olson Orthodontics today to book an appointment or use our easy online portal!