You’re getting your braces off – you can’t wait to see your straight teeth and gorgeous smile (not to mention eat your favorite off-limits treats). The last thing you want to see when the brackets come off is white or dark spots on your front teeth. Unfortunately, orthodontic patients are at a higher risk of decay during their treatment – and after getting their braces off, they have to undergo additional dental work to fix the problems.
This doesn’t have to happen to you or your kids. Find ways to keep your teeth clean during braces, and you’ll be all the happier when your braces come off.
Keeping Teeth Clean – Even with Braces
Braces attract food particles and plaque, in large part because of the tough-to-reach surfaces they create. It’s harder to remove food particles and easier for plaque to build up on the enamel. When your enamel softens and loses minerals, it takes on a chalky, white appearance, which leaves your smile looking less than ideal post-treatment. To keep everything healthy and beautiful, follow these simple tips.
- Build an oral hygiene kit – You need to be able to clean your teeth throughout the day. While you might not brush after lunch in your regular life, braces change things. You’ll not only want to protect your teeth from decay-boosting foods and drinks, but also remove food particles that can become lodged in your braces and put off coworkers. Assemble a small bag with toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash so that you’re never without the tools you need to stay clean.
- Avoid sugary or overly messy foods – There’s no reason to make things even harder for yourself. If you eat sugary or starchy snacks during the day, more plaque will form and your braces/teeth will be tougher to clean. Try to pick foods and drinks that are both braces- and health-friendly, and remember that water is always the best drink for your body!
- Use braces-friendly cleaning tools – Make your brushing and flossing simple. You don’t need to spend extra time straining to reach around your orthodontia – instead, ask for some product recommendations. With flossers and specialized toothbrushes, it’s easy to reach anywhere you need.
