A Guide To Cleaning Teeth With Braces

Braces are like cool dental helpers that make your teeth whitening and straighter. But sometimes, they can get dirty and tricky to clean. Don't worry; we're here to help! 

This guide is like a step-by-step map to keep your teeth and braces super clean. Starting with the basics of braces and the things you need. Then, this guide will show you a simple daily routine to keep your mouth healthy. If your braces ever hurt, we'll tell you how to make it better. So, let's get started and keep your smile shining through your brace adventure!

Why is it important?

First, let's understand why keeping your teeth clean with braces is crucial. Braces create little nooks and crannies where food particles can get trapped, making it easier for plaque to build up. Left unchecked can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath. Yikes! So, here's how to keep your teeth and braces squeaky clean.

Tools you'll need

Before we dive into the cleaning process, let's gather our tools:

1. Toothbrush: You'll need a soft-bristle toothbrush. Some best dentists in Miami recommend an electric toothbrush for a thorough clean.
2. Dental floss: Look for a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate around your braces.
3. Interdental brushes: These tiny brushes can help clean your wires and brackets.
4. Orthodontic wax: Keep this handy for any brace-related discomfort.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your teeth with braces:

Step 1: Prepare your Toothbrush

Start by washing your mouth with water to remove any loose debris. Then, apply a small amount of toothpaste to your toothbrush. 

Step 2: Brush Gently

Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle and brush each tooth, focusing on the brackets and wires. Use small, circular motions. Remember the gumline and the area between your braces and teeth.

Step 3: Floss like a Pro

Thread the floss under the wire and gently clean between your teeth. Be patient; it might take a little longer than usual. 

Step 4: Interdental Brushes

Use interdental brushes to clean those hard-to-reach spots. They're great for dislodging food particles.

Step 5: Rinse and Check

Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or an antimicrobial mouthwash. Take a moment to ensure you got all the spots.

How Often should You Clean?

You should brush after every meal and snack. If that's not possible, at least twice a day is a must. Make sure to get a new toothbrush when the bristles look all worn out, which is typically about every three months.

Dealing with Discomfort

Orthodontic treatment can sometimes cause sore spots or ulcers. If that happens, don't worry! Here's what you can do:

• Orthodontic Wax

Apply a small amount of wax to the rough spot to prevent further irritation.

Professional Check-ups

Regular visits to your orthodontist are essential. They'll make adjustments to your braces, ensuring they're working as they should. Plus, they can spot and address any issues you might have missed.

Diet and Oral Health

What you eat can impact your braces and your overall oral health. Here are some tips:

Foods to Avoid:

• Sticky candies and gum
• Hard or crunchy snacks like popcorn and nuts
• Chewy or tough foods like bagels and beef jerky

Braces-friendly Diet:

• Soft fruits and vegetables
• Dairy products
• Pasta and rice
• Lean meats

Also, stay hydrated and limit sugary drinks. Water is your best friend!

Emergency Care

Sometimes, you might encounter orthodontic emergencies. Here's what to do:

• Loose Brackets or Wires

• Don't try to fix it yourself.
• Cover any sharp edges with orthodontic wax.
• Call your orthodontist for an appointment.

• Poking Wires

• Use the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire away gently.
• Place orthodontic wax over the wire's end if that doesn't work.
• Contact your orthodontist if the issue persists.

Maintaining Discipline

Finally, let's talk about staying disciplined throughout your orthodontic journey. It can be a long process, but remember, the end result is a beautiful smile. Celebrate your milestones, no matter how small they may seem. Keep a positive attitude, and you'll breeze through it!

Conclusion

Keeping your oral health better when you have braces is easy. You just need the right stuff, a good plan, and a positive attitude. Don't skip your dentist in Miami appointments—they're here to help you get a great smile!

To learn more about taking care of your braces, look at the extra stuff we have below. Having a nice smile is important!