How to Best Care for Your Metal Braces

If you or your children are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment with the traditional metal braces, you may want to be aware of some tips and restrictions to make sure that your orthodontic treatment is as successful as possible. If you’re not properly caring for your metal braces, you could damage them, which may cause damage to your teeth or a disruption in your treatment plan.

How to Care for Metal Braces

Here a few ways to make sure you’re taking care of your metal braces:

• Avoid certain foods – When your braces are put on, we will provide you with a list of foods to avoid during orthodontic treatment. These foods can damage the braces, which may, in turn, damage your teeth. Foods to avoid may include:
  • Sticky candy
  • Nuts
  • Popcorn
  • Whole raw fruit
  • Tough meats
  • Bagels
• Choose the right kinds of oral hygiene products – When your braces are put on, you will be provided with a list of the best kinds of floss, toothpaste, and mouthwash to use. Following these instructions will help you to avoid damaging your braces with abrasives and harsh materials or accidentally discoloring the elastics or equipment with dyes.
• Floss every day – Once you find the right kind of floss for you, make sure to floss every day. Flossing is the best way to avoid dental diseases like tooth decay, dental cavities, gum disease, and halitosis during orthodontic treatment. We also recommend carrying floss with you to remove food that might get stuck when you’re out and about.
• Brush after each meal to remove debris – When you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s important that you brush after each and every meal to avoid food debris from being stuck in the brackets or wires. If you can’t brush after each meal, at least try to rinse your mouth out with water to loosen food particles.

For more important tips on how to care for your metal braces, or you’d like to set up a consultation for orthodontic treatment here in Colorado Springs, Colorado, please contact Lockett Orthodontics today.