Braces are effective at correcting a variety of dental problems and improving the appearance of crooked or otherwise abnormal teeth. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, more than 4 million American children have braces. Although braces do not normally interfere with daily activities, they do require special oral care to prevent damage and tooth decay. Report any symptoms of gum disease, tooth decay or damage to your braces to your orthodontist or dentist.
Step 1
Clean your teeth after every meal and snack. Cleaning regularly is important for general dental health, and it is even more important when you have braces. This is because food particles can become stuck on or trapped behind your braces, where they press up against your teeth and dissolve tooth enamel.
Step 2
Brush your teeth slowly, making certain to clean in every crevice and under every wire and brace. Dr. Dan Peterson of Family Gentle Dental Care recommends using an electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Step 3
Floss after brushing by threading the floss beneath the arch wire that runs through your braces. Wrap it around one side of the tooth, push it toward your gum line and then pull the floss back down toward the arch wire. Repeat this motion at least four times on each tooth. You may need to use a special tool called a floss threader to properly clean your braces. Ask your orthodontist.
Step 4
Avoid chewing on sticky, crunchy, hard or chewy foods or other items. Chewing on hard candy, ice, pens or pencils can damage braces, according to the AAO. Also, avoid raw vegetables, such as carrots and apples, corn on the cob, hard crusts and chips, and chewing gum.
Step 5
Care for your retainer by brushing it with regular toothpaste at least twice each day. Store your retainer in its plastic case when it is not inside your mouth. Do not leave your retainer lying on a counter or wrapped in a paper towel. Doing so may result in your retainer being thrown away, dropped or otherwise damaged. Avoid exposing your retainer to excessive heat.
Tips and Warnings
- The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry explains that children with braces do not typically need to alter their activities or limit their participation in sports. Your orthodontist may have provided you with care instructions after fitting your braces. If so, follow those instructions every day until your braces are removed.
Things You'll Need
- Electric toothbrush
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Floss
