Braces are incredibly effective for creating a healthy, long-lasting, and attractive smile. Any parent who has paid for this type of cosmetic dentistry knows that it is no small investment. When you’ve invested in braces with Chinook Family Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, it’s important that you use the proper dental care to maintain them.

The Importance of Dental Care for Braces

Why It Matters

Taking care of teeth normally takes a certain investment of time and effort, but it becomes especially challenging and important when braces are involved. Braces are metal squares adhered to the teeth with a wire running between them. All that metal is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria since food easily catches around the braces themselves and underneath the wires. Failing to properly care for your teeth and braces can lead to cavities, periodontal disease, discolored teeth, and more.

How to Keep Braces Clean

Because braces require some extra teeth cleaning, you’ll need the right tools. Invest in a quality toothbrush, floss, and an oral irrigation system. Brush your teeth immediately after every meal if you can. Brush as you normally would, then angle it 45 degrees each way to thoroughly clean the top and bottom of each metal bracket. You may need to hold your lip back to get a good angle.

Flossing should be done every day. There are floss threaders available to help you get the thread underneath each wire. Be careful not to pull the floss toward the wire since this could dislodge it and damage the braces. Oral irrigation systems push water at a high pressure through all the hardware to help kick loose food and flush bacteria. They are often referred to as water flossers, and while they are useful tools, they should not replace flossing.

When you invest in braces with Dr. Symonds and Dr. Lathrop at Chinook Family Dentistry, you can trust you’re in the hands of dental care experts. They’ll provide all the services you need for healthy and beautiful teeth with over 35 years of experience. Contact them at (907) 272-8422 to schedule a dentist appointment.