Taking Care of Your Braces

braces4If you had the unfortunate experience of having to go through braces you will know that they can be tricky to take care of. Trust me, I know. I had braces for a total of 6 years growing up. San Antonio orthodontist can help you learn about braces and answer any questions you have. You will want to keep in mind the following tips when looking to take the best care of your braces. First, you want to make sure that you have all of the right equipment. Make sure you have a toothbrush, flosser, and perhaps a waterpick. By having the tools you need you are more apt to remember to use it and make using it a habit. Second, spend at least 2 minutes brushing your teeth morning and night. This is important to get rid of food that might get stuck in between brackets and wires. Two minutes might seem like a long time, but in the grand scheme of things this is really very quick. Third, remember to floss each tooth even in the way back. I found it very useful have flossers to help me easily get in and out of my teeth and under wires effectively. If food gets stuck and stays there for a long period of time bad breath can occur as well as a buildup of plaque. Fourth, I also found it very useful to get a small wire brush and use that to go around each bracket to minimize plaque and buildup. It might seem like a daunting task but this is something that is important to do. Fifth, take advantage of mouthwash. This is a great way to give someone good breath and fluoride into an individual’s mouth to protect their teeth. There’s all sorts of flavors so chances are that you’ll find something your taste buds will like. Another way to take care of your braces and make the most of it, is to ask your orthodontist for fun color rubber bands. Each time you go for a check-up change the color and mix it up for something new and fun. By doing this little thing you can somewhat make this uncomfortable situation not as bad. In addition, to take care of your braces and make them the most effective for you, make sure to wear any and all headgear that your orthodontist gives you. You might hate the look of it, and let’s face it, it might even hurt and be uncomfortable, but it will help your teeth move along as they should. Once you are through with the metal mouth phase you will be loving your new straight teeth. Lastly, one final and important way to take care of your braces is to avoid foods that can harm your braces or perhaps even make them break. Some of these food include carrots which are hard or popcorn that the kernels can break off your brackets. It is absolutely essential to keep good care of your braces so your teeth underneath are protected and don’t decay over time. Braces can be tricky, but if you take care of them they are a great and easy way to make you have beautiful and straight teeth for a killer smile.