Oral Care for People with Braces: Do’s and Don’ts
Oral Care for People with Braces: Do’s and Don’ts
Braces are the gateway to a straight, confident smile — but they also come with a few lifestyle changes, especially when it comes to oral hygiene.
If you're wearing braces or caring for someone who is, here’s your go-to guide of braces do’s and don’ts to keep that smile healthy throughout the journey.
The Do’s: Braces-Friendly Habits for Healthy Teeth
1. Brush After Every Meal
Food tends to get trapped in and around brackets. Brushing after every meal helps prevent plaque buildup and keeps your teeth squeaky clean. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an orthodontic brush for better reach.
2. Floss Daily (Yes, It’s Possible!)
Flossing with braces might feel like solving a Rubik’s cube, but with floss threaders or orthodontic floss, it gets much easier — and it's essential to avoid cavities between teeth.
3. Rinse with Mouthwash
An antibacterial mouthwash helps clean areas your brush might miss and reduces the risk of gum inflammation and bad breath.
4. Use Interdental Brushes
These little wonders fit between wires and brackets to remove leftover food. Keep one handy in your bag for quick touch-ups!
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine dental cleanings are still important with braces. In fact, you might need them more often to ensure your gums and teeth remain healthy throughout orthodontic treatment.
The Don’ts: Habits That Can Damage Braces (and Teeth)
1. Don’t Eat Sticky, Hard, or Crunchy Foods
Say no to gum, caramel, popcorn, nuts, and hard candies. These can break brackets, bend wires, and delay your treatment.
2. Avoid Sugary Snacks and Drinks
Sugar increases your risk of plaque and decalcification, which can cause white spots on your teeth after the braces are removed.
3. Don’t Skip Brushing
Skipping even one brushing session can lead to plaque buildup, which is hard to clean around braces. Make brushing your non-negotiable ritual!
4. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Opening bottle caps or tearing packages with your teeth is a no-go, especially with braces on. It can cause serious damage to your appliance (and your enamel).
Need Help Managing Oral Hygiene with Braces?
Braces may be temporary, but good oral hygiene is forever. At Gargi’s Dental Care, Kolkata, we guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey — from fitting to flawless results.
Book a consultation today and let your braces bring out your best smile with www.gargisdentalcare.com
