Tips for Managing Braces

Braces can be uncomfortable and tricky to manage, especially if you’ve just gotten them put on. It’s important to understand how to properly care for your braces to ensure that they are effective and don’t cause any additional pain or discomfort. Here are some tips for managing braces that will make the process easier. 

Avoid Eating Sticky Foods 

One of the most important things to remember when wearing braces is to avoid eating sticky foods. Sticky foods like caramel, taffy, gummy candy, licorice, etc., can easily get stuck in the brackets, wires, and bands of your braces which can lead to increased discomfort and make it harder to keep your teeth clean, and could even break a bracket off a tooth. If you do decide to indulge in a sticky snack every once in a while, be sure to brush your teeth immediately afterward. 

Keep Your Braces Clean 

It’s important to keep your braces clean at all times since food particles can easily get stuck in them which can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Make sure you brush after every meal and floss at least once a day (while avoiding flossing between wires) so that you don’t have any unwanted surprises when you go back in for an adjustment. Additionally, rinse with a mouthwash that contains fluoride as this will help protect your teeth from decay and cavities over time. If you can follow these steps, you will be able to keep your braces and teeth clean and healthy during your treatment.

OTC Pain Meds for Discomfort 

Even though it takes some time to get used to having braces on your teeth, there are some over-the-counter pain medications available that can help ease the transition period. Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed if you experience any discomfort from the orthodontic adjustments; however, it is best not to take more than the recommended dosage listed on the bottle as doing so could lead to other health complications. 

Managing braces correctly is essential for proper oral hygiene during treatment. By avoiding sticky foods, keeping your braces clean by brushing regularly and using mouthwash with fluoride, plus taking OTC pain meds as needed – these tips will make managing your braces easier so they work properly! This will ensure better results when it comes time for the removal of your braces! Keep up with these tips while wearing them and you won’t have any problems!

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How to Clean Your Braces

Braces may help you achieve a beautiful, straight smile, but they also require special maintenance. Keeping your braces clean is especially important, as plaque and food particles can build up on the metal and cause discoloration or even tooth decay. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your braces for optimum oral health. 

Brush After Eating

The best way to keep your braces clean is by brushing them after every meal or snack. Make sure you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to get rid of any food particles that may have become stuck in the brackets or wires. It’s also important to brush around the brackets, not just in between them. This will ensure that all areas are completely clean and free of debris. Bruising after eating every time will help you clear out any stuck bits of food that can get trapped between your wires and brackets. If you want to keep your teeth as healthy as possible, start brushing after every meal.

Use Floss/Toothpick Brushes

In addition to brushing after meals and snacks, it’s also helpful to use toothpick brushes on a regular basis. These small brushes are designed specifically for cleaning around braces and can help reduce the amount of plaque buildup on the metal surfaces of your braces. They come in both disposable and reusable varieties, so you can choose which one works best for you. While these small brushes may not seem like a necessity, they will certainly pay dividends if you use them.

Mouthwash

Mouthwash is another great tool for keeping your braces clean and free from bacteria buildup. When used regularly, mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup along with bad breath caused by food particles caught in the wires of your braces. Just make sure to rinse with plain water afterward so that the acidity of the mouthwash doesn’t damage your teeth or gums over time! Using a mouthwash rinse can also help dislodge food stuck in your brackets and wires, so try using a mouthwash daily.

Taking proper care of your braces is essential for achieving a healthy smile once they’re removed — and these simple steps can help make sure that happens! Regular brushing after meals and snacks, using pick brushes when needed, and rinsing with mouthwash will go a long way toward keeping your braces clean at all times. With consistent care like this, you’ll be well on your way toward achieving that perfect smile!

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