Braces Care
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF BRACES
Braces Care Cheltenham
Braces are received to correct the alignment of our teeth and jaws, which can result in better health — and a long-lasting smile that can last a long time.
However, braces come with the risk of plaque build-up in and surrounding the teeth and gums.
This makes it very important to take special care when practising oral hygiene and cleaning our braces regularly.
Basic Hygiene and Care for Braces
Practice careful hygiene while wearing braces.
Since orthodontic appliances create areas for plaque build-up, cleaning them properly can prevent any sign of tooth decay and gum disease and keep your teeth and whole mouth healthy.
When wearing braces, your Cheltenham dentist may provide or recommend a product that will help you maintain your braces. Make sure to use them as per instruction.
This may take a little practice but will become an easy daily habit and part of your oral hygiene routine.
Don’t forget, brushing your braces is not enough to keep them clean, and they will require special cleaning.
If you are wearing removable orthodontic appliances, make sure to remove and clean them with a toothbrush and water every night before sleeping.
How to Clean your Braces
- Remove any bands, straps, or headgear.
- Position your brush at a 45-degree angle against the gum. Use gentle side-to-side strokes along the gumline. Brush one tooth at a time for at least 10 seconds each.
- Brush the inner and outer sides and gumline.
- Do not forget to brush all the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Brush around the brackets but don’t put too much pressure on them.
Diet Tips
When you are installed with braces, your Cheltenham dentist will most likely recommend you take care of them by considering your dietary choices.
Here are a few tips to avoid damaging your braces:
- Avoid chewing on gum
- Avoid drinking sweet and acidic beverages
- Hard fruits and foods that need firm chewing should be cut into smaller pieces
- Limit your sugary food consumption
- Avoid hard and sticky treats
Braces Lifestyle Changes
Wearing braces may seem overwhelming, but you should be able to adapt to them and make it a habit of caring for them and your oral health.
Braces don’t stay forever, but their effect on your dental health will be around for a long time.
- See your Cheltenham dentist every month for adjustments.
- Wear a custom-made mouthguard if you play sports or participate in leisure activities.
- Bring a toothbrush with you every time you leave home and clean your braces whenever you think it’s necessary.
Braces Care in Cheltenham
Care for your braces as you care for your teeth.
For more information on braces care in Cheltenham, contact us on (03) 9583 5506 or request your appointment online.
We are located at Suite C, 151 Centre Dandenong Road in Cheltenham.