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When your dentist tells you you’re getting braces, you may be nervous, excited, and curious. Knowing how to care for them will alleviate some of your concerns, as well as keep your teeth clean and healthy. Here are some do’s and don’ts of taking care of your braces.

Do:

Brush your teeth after every meal.

bracesWhen an orthodontist puts on your braces, they will advise you to brush frequently. Your braces can easily trap excess food particles and residue on your teeth, heightening your risk for cavities and plaque buildup. Thoroughly clean them after every meal or snack to prevent these issues.

Avoid hard and sticky foods.

Foods that are chewy and sticky—such as candy—can easily get stuck in your teeth and metal brackets. Additionally, hard foods can break or bend your braces, so make sure to mostly eat soft foods.

Floss often.

Though the metal brackets and wiring can make flossing more difficult, you should still make it a habit. If you’re having trouble with traditional floss, try an alternative, such as water picks, to help you reach tight spaces. 

Don’t:

Try to adjust them yourself.

Never attempt to adjust your braces yourself; only a licensed orthodontist should do this. Doing it yourself can lead to bracket damage and mouth injuries. 

Drink soda.

Soda residue can be hard to remove from the areas around your brackets and wiring, making your teeth more susceptible to stains and cavities in those areas. While you may not notice them immediately, they will stand out once your braces are removed. To prevent these issues, avoid soda and energy drinks.

Chew on hard objects.

Avoid chewing on your nails, pens, or other items. They can break or bend the wiring and brackets, causing discomfort. Hard objects can also get stuck between the wiring and your teeth, damaging the tooth’s surface.

 

If you need braces or help maintaining them, you can count on the team at Dansville Family Dental Care in Livingston County, NY. Since they were founded in 2001, they’ve become a trusted name in providing high-quality dental care. Their licensed and certified staff will deliver comprehensive and compassionate care to improve your oral health. Whether you need dental implants or braces, they’ll handle it with precision and kindness. Visit them online or call (585) 335-6170 to schedule an appointment.

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