Toothpaste:
Choose toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities.
Flossing your teeth:
Flossing takes more time and patience when you have braces; you will need special orthodontic floss, and it is important to floss your teeth every day. We recommend flossing at night, before brushing your teeth, to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed.
Be careful not to damage your braces or wires when removing the floss.
Mouthwash:
Mouthwash is not only a refreshing way to prevent bad breath, but it also helps to kill harmful bacteria in your mouth. Using a fluoride mouthwash as a part of your oral care routine can provide added benefits to your dental health.
Antibacterial Mouthwash:
If you notice your gums are red, swollen, and bleeding, it means you have gum inflammation. It is caused by plaque and requires proper oral hygiene to reduce the inflammation. We also suggest using an antiseptic mouth rinse to help heal the gums, in addition to proper brushing and flossing. It can be used for general irritation caused by your braces or for sores, cheek bites, etc.
Diet:
Your diet plays a significant role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. You should avoid sticky, sugary, acidic, and hard foods that can damage your braces and teeth, especially fizzy drinks.
You should aim for a balanced diet; remember to chop/slice food into small pieces, chew slowly to prevent damaging the braces, and brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles and plaque.
Don’t miss your appointments:
The state of your oral hygiene care will be assessed during your orthodontic appointments. The orthodontic team can check and recommend any necessary adjustments to your oral hygiene routine during your monthly appointments. By consistently attending your appointments, you will stay on track with your overall oral health and ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
Visit the Dentist:
While you’re visiting the orthodontist regularly, you should still see your dentist every six months to check for cavities.
By maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices throughout your orthodontic treatment, you can minimise the risk of dental problems, promote a healthy smile, and ensure the best possible outcome.