Beyond visiting your family dentist to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy, you may wish to explore orthodontic straightening of your teeth and enhance the appearance and  function of your teeth. After getting braces to close gaps, realign teeth, and fix bite issues, follow the list of do’s and don’ts below to maintain your oral health and reduce the risk of hardware problems. 

Do:

Brush and floss frequently. 

With metal brackets and wires in place, it’s easier for food remnants to get stuck in your mouth. This can result in additional bacteria that weakens your enamel and leads to stains and tooth decay. To combat these issues, brush and floss your teeth frequently. In addition to performing your oral hygiene routine in the morning and before bed, dental patients with orthodontics are encouraged to brush and floss after every meal. 

Discuss your athletic endeavors with your dental office. 

If you’re an athlete who participates in sports such as football, soccer, field hockey, or lacrosse, talk to your dental office about these pursuits. Based on the sports you play, your dentist may provide or recommend wearing a special mouthguard during games. This will protect your teeth, gums, and braces should you sustain a mouth injury. 

Don’t:

Eat sticky foods. 

Braces are attached to each tooth using a special glue. While this glue is strong, certain foods can break the bond and result in the need to visit your dentist for repairs. To avoid these issues, refrain from chewing gum and consuming sticky foods such as caramel, taffy, and gummy bears. Hard, crunchy foods that require a sturdy bite like apples, popcorn, and nuts should also be avoided. 

Skipped visits

Regular visits to your dentist are imperative to check on your progress, change wires, and perform slight adjustments to successfully straighten your smile. If you skip or continually reschedule these appointments, you’ll have to wear your braces for an extended period and results may not be as strong as you hoped. 

If you’re interested in braces to improve the appearance of your smile, Drs Emery & Scuro DMD PC, in Monroe County, NY, is your one-stop shop for premiere dental care and orthodontics. With over 35 years of experience and a reputation for friendly, effective oral care, you can count on this dental office to serve all your general and cosmetic dentistry needs as well. Call today at (585) 247-7110 to schedule an appointment and visit this practice online to learn more about their commitment to comprehensive, pain-free treatment.