Some foods are capable of damaging your brackets and wires which could prolong treatment time. These foods, that when modified and with good oral hygiene, can be enjoyed while you are in braces.
HOW TO ENJOY SWEETS
Immediately after eating sweet foods and drinks, brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water. This reduces the possibility of tooth decay.
Hard, sticky and chewy foods are the most common causes of loose brackets and broken appliances. Remember to avoid biting/chewing on pens, pencils and sports mouthguards.
HARD, STICKY AND CHEWY FOOD
FOOD/BEVERAGES THAT CAN STAIN O-RINGS
BRUSHING TIPS
Use a soft bristled, small headed toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste.
Electric toothbrushes are recommended.
Brush for two minutes after every meal.
Brush all tooth surfaces with small circular motions at a 45 degree angle.
Take special care to clean the areas around your braces, especially at the gum line.
Rinse thoroughly and check teeth and braces in the mirror.
Repeat brushing if necessary.
FLOSSING TIPS
Using flossers, gently slide the floss between all teeth using a back and forth motion.
Floss the side of each tooth beneath the gum line to remove plaque and food particles.
Water flossers and Water-Piks® are helpful. Proxy brushes are good for those hard to reach areas.
DISCOMFORT
If a wire protrudes, cover it with wax or a small piece of *sugarfree gum.
WHEN TO CALL
If a wire is poking or something comes loose, call us so that we can determine if a prompt repair is necessary.
*Chewing sugarfree gum stimulates saliva flow which can help keep teeth clean.
Britton Orthodontics