What is Oral Hygiene?
The techniques and practices used to keep the mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy are called oral hygiene. It entails cleaning the mouth regularly and thoroughly to prevent dental difficulties such as tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other oral issues.
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The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is critical for preserving good teeth, gums, and overall health. Maintaining good dental hygiene can help avoid oral issues, including bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. It entails regular brushing, flossing, rinsing, and regular dental checkups. In addition to improving digestion and overall health, good oral hygiene promotes a confident grin. It is critical for preventing dental problems and protecting the longevity of natural teeth.
10 Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy While Wearing Braces
While wearing braces, it’s essential to take extra precautions while wearing braces to maintain good dental health. Here are some helpful suggestions:
- Brushing: After every meal and snack, thoroughly brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Clean the area around the brackets and wires with special care. Next, brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste using small circular motions.
- Interdental Cleaning: Use interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between the braces and under the wires. This aids in removing food particles and plaque that can become lodged in these areas.
- Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods: Certain foods, like sticky candy, chewing gum, popcorn, and hard nuts, can harm or become stuck in braces. Instead, choose foods that are soft, easy to chew, and safe for orthodontic appliances.
- Use Mouthwash to Rinse: After brushing, rinse your mouth out with an antiseptic mouthwash. By doing this, you can lessen bacteria and maintain fresh breath.
- Schedule Routine Dental Examinations: Have regular dental examinations to make sure your braces are set correctly and to treat any oral health issues. You can get advice on maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces from your dentist or orthodontist.
- Keep Yourself Hydrated: Water helps to wash away food particles and maintain saliva production, which helps to balance acids and prevents dry mouth.
- Wear a Mouth guard for Sports: If you participate in sports or physical activities, wearing a mouth guard is vital to protect your teeth and braces from injury. Consult your orthodontist for a custom-made mouth guard that fits perfectly over your braces.
- Avoid Sugary and Acidic Foods: Sugary and acidic foods might contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. Limit your sugary foods, sodas, and acidic drinks like citrus juices. If you consume them, wash your teeth or rinse your mouth with water to get rid of any leftover particles.
- Maintain a Braces-Friendly Diet: It’s essential to stay away from chewy, sticky, or hard foods when wearing braces, as these can harm the brackets or wires. Instead, choose softer substitutes such as lean meats, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and steamed vegetables.
- Carry a Braces Care Kit: Always keep a braces care kit with you, especially while you’re away from home. Include necessary items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss threaders, interdental brushes, and orthodontic wax. This enables you to maintain your braces and handle any discomfort or problems while you’re out and about.
Remember that it’s crucial to pay attention to any recommendations regarding braces care that your dentist or orthodontist may provide. They will give you personalized guidance based on your particular situation.
Also Read: Can Dental Implants Fail? Understanding Causes And Prevention
How Often Should You Brush If You Have Braces?
Brushing your teeth at least thrice daily is usually advised when wearing braces. Here’s a summary of the brushing process for those who wear braces:
- After Meals: Brush your teeth after each meal to remove plaque and food particles that might get lodged in or around the brackets and wires. This lessens the chance of gum disease and tooth decay by preventing the accumulation of bacteria.
- Morning and Night: Brush your teeth thoroughly in the morning and before bed, paying particular attention to cleaning all surfaces of your teeth, including brackets, wires, and the gum line. This contributes to good oral hygiene and keeps your mouth fresh.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to clean your teeth correctly, pay close attention to each tooth, and take your time. Brush your teeth thoroughly but gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine and regular dental checkups will aid in preserving the health of your teeth and gums throughout your orthodontic treatment. If you need more information on how to care for your braces, call us at Smile Dental in St. Clair, Toronto immediately!
