Crooked teeth can cause a long list of problems, including self-esteem issues and difficulty talking and chewing. Fortunately, with the help of your dentist and orthodontic care, you can enjoy straighter, more beautiful teeth in a matter of months. Here are a few do’s and don’ts of having braces, and why following the rules matters in the long run.

Do:

Brush and floss carefully.

Since braces contain archwires connected to the teeth with brackets and rubber bands, there are plenty of places for food debris to lodge itself. Continue to brush and floss carefully every day, and consider purchasing an interdental cleaner to help you to clean the area around brackets.

Invest in a custom mouth guard.

An impact between your braces and the sides of your cheeks can cause scratches or cuts, so talk with your dentist about getting a custom mouthguard to use during sports or heavy exercise. These guards are made to form around braces and teeth, helping to protect your mouth.

Don’t:

Eat hard or sticky foods.

Consuming gummy or tough foods can bend wires or cause brackets to pop off of the teeth. When you choose meals, avoid ingredients that could cause problems, such as popcorn kernels, croutons, caramels, or crisp breads.

Skip dental visits. 

Routine visits with your dentist can help your teeth to stay strong and healthy, even during orthodontic care. Never skip appointments to have your teeth cleaned or your braces adjusted. Also, follow the dentist’s instructions to the letter to avoid dental decay and braces damage.

Whether you‘re new to braces or you have questions about what orthodontic care entails, contact Craig A. Spletzer, DDS in Fairfield, OH. Since 1990, this dedicated family dentist has been helping people with everything from basic preventative and restorative care to orthodontics and dental implants. Learn more about the practice’s solutions for a wide range of dental issues on their website, or call (513) 860-1133 to set up an appointment.