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Wearing braces can straighten your teeth and give you the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of having. However, you still have to brush your teeth daily. Bert E. Bathiany IV, DMD, a dentist in Florence, KY, provides further information on what can happen if you don’t take care of your teeth while wearing braces.

The Consequences of Not Brushing Your Teeth With Braces

If you don’t brush well enough, bacteria can form and dissolve calcium and other minerals that make up the teeth. This will leave you with pale, opaque spots on the surface. Likewise, inadequate brushing can also make you more susceptible to staining. Food particles settle into your teeth, causing them to have a yellow appearance. Lastly, plaque can build up when you neglect your oral health regimen, which can lead to gingivitis. 

How to Brush Teeth With Braces

When you have braces, food particles can stick to your teeth and brackets, making brushing more difficult. As a dentist can confirm, it’s still important to do so after every meal. Here are some ways to make it easier:

  • Swish water around in your mouth beforehand to loosen food particles in your braces.
  • Position the toothbrush on top of the brackets and carefully brush each bracket.
  • Place the toothbrush at an upward angle to reach the bottom of the brackets.
  • Spend at least 30 seconds tending to each bracket to ensure all your teeth get clean.

If you make your oral health a priority while wearing braces, your teeth will stay in excellent shape. Family dentist Bert E. Bathiany IV, DMD has provided pediatric dental care services, including cleanings, fillings, and orthodontics, since 1980 and cares about helping his patients achieve optimal oral health. To schedule an appointment with this dentist, call (859) 525-2100 or visit his website for more information about his services. 

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