If properly cared for, braces can help you achieve a straight, confident smile. While millions of people wear these orthodontic appliances to correct misaligned teeth, many unknowingly make hygiene mistakes that can lead to cavities, bad breath, and more.
Read this blog to avoid common mistakes while wearing braces.
1. Neglecting Good Oral Hygiene
Whether you have braces or not, maintaining proper dental hygiene is essential. Failing to keep your teeth clean while wearing these aligners leads to plaque buildup, tooth decay, halitosis (bad breath), and gum disease.
Oral Hygiene Maintenance While Wearing Braces
- After each meal, brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Use a water flosser or floss threader every day.
- If brushing is not an option, rinse with fluoride mouthwash.
2. Consuming Foods Under Restrictions
You will receive a list of foods from your orthodontist to avoid while wearing braces. Your teeth and aligner health may suffer if you don’t follow the dietary guidelines.
Foods You Must Not Eat
- Hard foods that bend wires and shatter brackets include candy, ice, and nuts.
- Gum, caramel, and taffy are chewy foods that can become lodged between braces and are challenging to clean.
- Raw carrots, popcorn, and chips are crunchy foods that can strain brackets and break them.
- You experience tooth decay and plaque buildup from sugary meals and beverages like soda, candies, and sweetened drinks.
Consume brace-friendly, soft foods to eliminate the need for repairs during orthodontic treatment.
3. Skipping Appointments with Your Orthodontist
Regular orthodontic consultations are essential for tracking teeth movement and adjusting braces. If you continue to miss or delay your visits, you risk extending your treatment period and halting your orthodontic progress.
What Makes Orthodontic Consultations Important?
- Any gum disease or decay indications are thoroughly examined and treated by your orthodontist.
- Your braces can be adjusted to help ensure your teeth are progressing properly. However, your progress toward straightening may be hampered if you miss orthodontic appointments.
- If any part breaks or comes loose, those are fixed during these appointments to avoid further complications.
If you’re searching for clear braces near you, schedule an appointment with an experienced orthodontist who can help you maintain proper oral health.
4. Failure to Clean Your Braces Appropriately
Dental decay and swollen or bleeding gums are caused by the tiny gaps in braces that allow food particles and plaque to accumulate quickly. Brushing your teeth after each meal is often not enough, especially if you have clear braces. Moreover, your orthodontic appliances may become discolored, dirty, and smelly if not kept clean.
Cleaning Instructions for Orthodontic Braces
- To clean around braces, use an orthodontic toothbrush.
- You may use interdental brushes to remove trapped debris from between wires and brackets,
- Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue and gum line, so keep them clean.
Gum disease, cavities, and white spots on your teeth are common consequences of not properly cleaning your braces.
5. Not Watching Your Gums
While focusing on cleaning your teeth, it is advised not to forget about your gums! Ignoring periodontal health and maintenance can trigger severe consequences during and after orthodontic treatment. Ask your orthodontist for ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums while getting clear braces.
How to Keep Your Gums Healthy?
- Gently brush and floss along the gumline to prevent plaque buildup and inflammation.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Avoid smoking and excessive coffee consumption, which can irritate your gums.
Braces offer a safe and reliable way to correct misaligned teeth and improve your smile. However, poor oral hygiene and skipping routine visits can lead to complications. Avoid these mistakes to enjoy all the benefits of orthodontic treatment.