Braces are quite helpful when it comes to fixing alignment issues and helping you get that beautiful smile you have always wanted. As a result, today, data from the American Association of Orthodontists indicates that around four million Americans are wearing braces. Here are some tips to make living with braces easier.
Brush Frequently
Brushing your teeth is important even when you don’t have braces. Once you get braces, you should actually double up on your brushing routine. This is because when you have braces, food particles will have more places to hide. These particles can quickly turn into plaque which will erode or decalcify tooth enamel. So, as soon as you get braces, it will be more important than ever to brush your teeth after meals. It’s also important to remember that you will need to change the toothbrush more often because of the wear caused by braces.
Watch What You Eat
The moment you get braces, you should start being more mindful of what you eat. There are certain foods that you have to avoid when you get braces. These are foods that can easily get caught between the teeth. Because of the structure of braces, such foods will be difficult to deal with once they get stuck. For instance, people with braces must stay away from chewy foods like licorice and bagels. You must also avoid lollipops, nuts, candy, skittles, and starbursts. If you happen to eat any of these foods, you must be prepared to brush vigorously afterward.
Floss Regularly
Apart from brushing and avoiding certain foods, you will also need to floss regularly. This will go a long way in helping you maintain good oral hygiene. When you have braces, flossing multiple times a day is a good way to ensure that the spaces in between the braces and the teeth stay squeaky clean.
These are some of the things you will need to do to take care of your oral hygiene and make living with braces easier. Once you get used to the routine, it will be easier to keep your mouth clean, as the braces fix your alignment issues.