If you have braces, you’re probably counting down the days until they come off. To ensure your smile will be as luminous as possible when that day finally arrives, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly and brush and floss diligently. Plaque can accumulate incredibly fast around the brackets and wires, and if left to calcify, it can cause considerable damage. Here are just a few tips for maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces.

Develop a Routine

Since brushing and flossing around brackets and wires takes a bit more time, it may be necessary to adjust your routine upon getting braces. Give yourself plenty of time in the morning and evening to clean your teeth. This will prevent cavities and staining over the course of your orthodontic treatment. You should also get in the habit of brushing and flossing after lunch. That might mean keeping a travel brush and floss picks in your purse or desk drawer. Flossing after every meal will keep food particles from sticking around for hours—which is long enough to result in plaque.

Add Mouthwash to the Mix

If rinsing with mouthwash is not already part of your routine, start doing so once you get braces. Although it will not replace brushing and flossing, it can help dislodge any food particles that get left behind. Mouthwash can also kill bacteria, even in hard-to-reach places, thereby preventing plaque and decay.

In addition to following the above tips, those who have braces should visit their dentist regularly for professional teeth cleanings. If it has been more than six months since you last saw the dentist, get in touch with Patrick M. Pitts, DDS. Dr. Pitts’ dental office is located in Archdale, NC, and his friendly team is proud to provide comprehensive dental care in a soothing environment. Their services include everything from scaling and root planing to teeth whitening. To request a dentist appointment, reach out online or call (336) 431-0002.