Whether you just gotten your braces, or you've had them for a while, you might be wondering how to best take care of them. While it's important to follow your orthodontist's instructions, there are some general tips that everyone should follow.
Brushing and Flossing
One of the most important things you can do to take care of your braces is to brush and floss regularly. This will help remove food particles and plaque from around your brackets and wires and help keep your teeth and gums nice and healthy. In order to maintain good oral health, please be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste recommended by our Santa Monica dental practice. Additionally, you may want to invest in orthodontic flossers and a Waterpik® that will make it easier to floss around your braces.
Eating Right
What you eat affects your braces as well as your overall health, so it's important to eat a balanced diet. Cut down on sugary snacks and drinks, as they can cause cavities, and avoid hard foods that can damage your brackets and wires.
Protecting Your Smile
Wearing a mouthguard while playing sports is a must to prevent damage to your braces and your teeth. If you need help choosing a mouthguard, we can give you a few suggestions for guards that can be worn over braces comfortably.
Visiting Our Santa Monica Office Regularly
It’s important to keep your appointments so we check the progress of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments. During your visits, be sure to ask any questions you may have about caring for your braces or anything else we can help with.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you’re doing everything you can to take care of your braces and achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted!