Caring for Braces
Orthodontics is used to straighten the teeth and correct the bite. Now that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, there are some things you should know about caring for your teeth and braces.
Dental Hygiene While Wearing Braces
Dental hygiene is a little more involved while wearing braces. To floss your teeth, work the short end of your floss through the space between the upper part of the tooth and the arch wire. Then use a sawing motion to gently work the floss between the teeth. Be very careful around the arch wires.
When brushing, use a soft-bristled brush. Brush both up from the bottom and down from the top of each tooth. Then use a proxabrush, which is designed to clean between the brackets. Insert the brush both from the bottom up and from the top down between each bracket. Use several brushing strokes in each direction.
Foods to Avoid
While undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces, there are certain foods that should be avoided, as they can break or loosen the brackets. These include:
- Hard or tough-to-bite foods like apples
- Chewy foods like caramel
- Carrots, popcorn, nuts, and hard pretzels
- Corn on the cob
If you have any questions for Dr. William and our team or if you would like to set up an appointment, feel free to contact our office at 513-697-9999 today. Our orthodontist and team in Midlothian, Ohio, are happy to serve you.