Braces Care
Hygiene
Tooth brushing and flossing are the patient’s most important responsibilities. Using the proper technique while brushing will prevent cavities and staining of teeth while undergoing orthodontic care.
Here are some helpful tips for brushing with braces:
- First brush on top of the braces in small circular strokes
- Angle the toothbrush to clean the area between the braces and your gums
- Don’t forget to brush the top and inside surfaces of your teeth
- Check in the mirror to make sure all plaque and food particles have been removed
- Using the proxy brush to clean in between the teeth
- Brush after every meal
- Floss at least once a day
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can cause braces or orthodontic appliances to break. Every time a bracket is broken, treatment time can be lengthened. There are two main categories of foods that should be avoided while braces are on. These include:
Sticky/ Chewy Foods:
- Bubblegum
- Taffy
- Starburst
- Caramel
- Gummy Candy
Hard Foods:
- Apples
- Carrots
- Corn on the cob
- Pizza Crust
- Pretzels
- Hard Candy
- Ice
- Nuts
*some hard foods can be eaten if cut into small pieces and chewed on back teeth
Sugary foods such as ice cream, cakes, candy, and soda should be limited.
Braces Diagram
A – Ligature
B – Archwire
C – Brackets
D – Bands