A Complete Guide to Taking Care of Your Braces
Braces are a significant investment in your dental health, leading to a beautiful, straight smile. However, they require proper care and attention. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taking care of your braces, from brushing techniques to managing emergencies.
How to Brush with Braces
Brushing your teeth with braces requires a little extra effort to ensure you remove all food particles and plaque. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush or an orthodontic toothbrush with a V-shaped trim can clean effectively around the brackets and wires.
Brush After Every Meal: Aim to brush your teeth after every meal to prevent food particles from getting stuck in your braces.
Brush at a 45-degree Angle: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Gently brush along the gum line and the brackets.
Clean Each Tooth Individually: Spend about 10 seconds brushing each tooth, making sure to clean above, below, and between the brackets.
Rinse and Check: Rinse your mouth thoroughly and check your teeth and braces in the mirror to ensure they are clean.
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Foods to Avoid with Braces
Certain foods can damage your braces or get stuck, leading to discomfort and potential complications. Here are some foods to avoid:
Hard Foods: Chikki, Til laddoos, Kachori, Yellow banana wafers, Ice golas, Khakhra
Crunchy foods, Samosa, sev puri, popcorn, waffle cones, hard taco shells, kurkure, Kechiya papad
Sticky Foods: Popcorn, chewing gum, chocolates like eclair, melody, lollipops, Naan, kulchas
Deep-fried batter-coated foods that are crispy and hard like wantons, Chicken lollipops, and Chinese fried noodles.
Foods allowed:
- Breakfast foods like poha upma sheera idli dosa oats muesli(with milk)
- All veggies and roties, chapatis
- All meats in all forms but strictly boneless
- Light crispy foods like Pani poori in place of sev poori thin and crispy papads, Wadapav in place of samosa
- Homemade food is soft and cooked properly over outside food that is deep-fried and crispy.
- Pain relief medicines can also be taken as per your dentist’s recommendation.
Managing Emergencies on a Trip
While traveling, it’s essential to be prepared for any orthodontic emergencies. Here are some tips:
Pack a Braces Kit: Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, orthodontic wax, and a small mirror.
Loose Bracket or Wire: Use orthodontic wax to cover any loose brackets or wires. If a wire is poking you, use a clean nail clipper to trim it.
Pain Relief: Carry over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Contact Your Orthodontist: Keep your orthodontist’s contact information handy. They can guide you over the phone or arrange an appointment when you return.
Management of Discomfort After Starting Braces
Discomfort is common after getting braces or having them adjusted. Here are some tips to manage it:
Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to soothe sore spots.
Orthodontic Wax: Apply wax to any brackets or wires irritating.
Soft Foods: Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
Pain Relief: Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
FAQs About Braces Care
Q: How often should I floss with braces?
A: You should floss at least once a day. Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to make it easier.
Q: Can I play sports with braces?
A: Yes, but wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces from injury.
Q: How do I handle a broken bracket?
A: Apply orthodontic wax to cover the broken bracket and contact your orthodontist for an appointment.
Q: How long will I need to wear braces?
A: The duration varies, but most wear braces for 1 to 3 years.
Q: What should I do if my braces are causing severe pain?
A: Severe pain is not typical. Contact your orthodontist immediately if you experience intense discomfort.
Taking care of your braces is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful orthodontic treatment. By following these guidelines, you can maintain good oral hygiene, avoid damage to your braces, and effectively manage discomfort or emergencies. Happy smiling!
