So, You Got Braces? What To Do Now

You got braces, but if you think the hard work is over – not so fast. Although taking care of your braces isn't exactly hard work, there is a right and a wrong way to go about it. Learn what you need to do to maintain your braces and oral health properly.

Keep Brushing

Some people make a mistake and think that their braces represent the end. For instance, the idea that their braces will solve all their oral health concerns; however, this is not the case. Just because you have braces, this does not mean that you can neglect your oral care; it's essential you remain just as diligent with your regular hygiene regimen.

At the foundation of this regimen should be a commitment to regular brushing, starting with at least two brushing sessions a day. It's also important to keep up with flossing. With braces, it's sometimes best not to rely on traditional flossing methods, as traditional floss can easily get stuck between your wires. It's much easier to use an orthodontic flosser or a water flosser to avoid this type of issue.

Eat Wisely

With braces, there is a particular type of diet you want to follow, unless you want a sticky mess on your hands. First, avoid chewy and sticky foods. Caramel, dried fruit snacks, and corn on the cob should not be the menu. These types of foods get lodged in between your braces and are very difficult to remove.

Even more frightening, the longer they remain in your mouth, the greater your risk of developing a cavity. Hard foods also aren't a good option for people with braces, such as nuts. These foods can also break the wires that hold your braces together, which might be painful and costly to repair.

Keep Protection in Mind

It's also important to remember that there are other care tips that you must keep in mind if you want to protect your braces. For example, for some people, chaffing is an issue, particularly when they first get their braces installed and it can be uncomfortable.

To combat this problem, you can put a specially formulated wax on your lips. Your orthodontist can help you find the wax. You also don't want to miss out on your adjustment appointments. If your braces are not adjusted properly, you will not achieve the results you want so keep this in mind.

Your care efforts are important if you want to properly maintain your braces, so make certain you're doing your part.