We offer evidence-based orthodontic care for kids, teens and adults in a bright, state-of-the-art office. Come in for a no-pressure consultation!
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Oral Hygiene With Braces
Maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces is incredibly important. When you visit Shine Orthodontics for treatment, our orthodontist and team will review the best ways to keep your teeth clean and healthy while they’re being straightened. To learn more about oral hygiene with braces or to find out if our Thornton braces treatment is right for you, call our office at 303-452-7777 and schedule a complimentary consultation.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy During Braces Treatment
It’s crucial to take care of your smile during braces treatment in order to prevent dental issues like tooth decay, gum disease and demineralization. If untreated, these issues can lead to serious oral health problems and could even prolong your treatment. At first, brushing and flossing with braces can be a little bit challenging. However, we promise, you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
To keep your smile healthy and good oral hygiene with braces, we recommend you follow these guidelines:
- Brush your teeth after every meal, or at least three times a day, using a fluoride toothpaste. If you eat a sugary snack in between meals, it’s best to brush your teeth again.
- Use an interproximal brush, also called an interdental brush or proxy brush, to help clean around the brackets and wires. It can get spots that your toothbrush might have a hard time reaching because of your braces.
- Floss at least once daily. As for how to floss with braces, using a floss threader or an orthodontic flosser can make it easier.
- Consider using a Waterpik for braces. A water flosser won’t take the place of regular flossing and is an additional step, but it will help keep your teeth, gums and braces sparkling clean. It’s also useful for dislodging food that can get caught in your braces.