Are you in the process of getting braces to straighten your teeth? It’s important to know that caring for your teeth while wearing braces requires some extra effort. Braces can be tricky to clean around and if not taken care of properly, they can cause oral health problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Here are some helpful tips to keep your teeth clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Brush after every meal:
When you have braces in Dubai, food particles can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires. It’s essential to brush your teeth thoroughly after each meal to prevent plaque buildup and food debris. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and spend extra time cleaning around the brackets and wires to ensure no food is left behind.
Flossing is a must:
Flossing with braces can be tricky, but it’s still necessary to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Special flossing tools, such as orthodontic floss or a floss threader, can help you maneuver the floss around your braces. Aim to floss at least once a day, ideally before bed, to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Use an interdental brush:
An interdental brush is a small brush designed to fit between the braces and clean hard-to-reach areas. Using an interdental brush after brushing and flossing can help remove any remaining debris and ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned. This extra step can prevent plaque from building up around the brackets, reducing the risk of cavities.
Avoid sticky or hard foods:
Certain foods can damage your braces or get stuck in them, making it harder to maintain proper oral hygiene. Avoid sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum, as they can become stuck in the wires and brackets. Hard foods like nuts or popcorn kernels can also break the wires or damage the brackets. Stick to soft, bite-sized pieces of food to avoid these issues.
Rinse with mouthwash:
Using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and prevent gum disease while wearing braces. Rinse with mouthwash after brushing and flossing to kill bacteria that may be left behind. Additionally, mouthwash can help freshen your breath, which is especially important when wearing braces, as food particles are more likely to linger.
