When you have braces, you have to be particularly mindful of oral hygiene, as there is a greater risk of food debris getting trapped in the mouth and subsequently an elevated risk of decay. When you have braces fitted, your dentist will explain how to keep them clean and which foods to try and avoid to protect your braces and promote good oral health and show you some effective cleaning techniques.
Keeping braces clean
If you have fixed braces, it can be tricky to keep them clean, especially after eating. But once you get used to a cleaning regime, you will find it becomes second nature and you should have no problems at all. If you are struggling at any point, don’t hesitate to get in touch and our dentists will be happy to help.
We recommend brushing the teeth after meals, but it is best to wait around 40 minutes. You can use a normal toothbrush and there are also specially designed brushes you can use for braces. We also recommend rinsing with mouthwash to wash away bacteria and food particles.
Dental checks
In addition to a good oral hygiene routine, we also recommend regular dental checks throughout your treatment so we can see how you are getting on and give your teeth a good clean and polish. If you have any problems at all between scheduled checks, we are always at the end of the phone to arrange extra appointments.
Diet
Your diet is really important when it comes to oral health and this is especially pertinent if you have braces. There are some foods that increase the risk of decay and gum disease and there are also some foods that may cause problems for your brace, such as boiled sweets and other hard foods. Generally speaking, it’s best to try and stick to a healthy, balanced diet, avoid chewy and sticky foods and moderate sugar intake.
