To get the best outcome for you or your loved one’s orthodontic treatment, it is necessary to know how to care for your braces or Invisalign aligners. Here are a few things you should know about your orthodontic appliances:
Caring for Your Braces
Oral Hygiene
A toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste is your best friend when it comes to caring for your teeth and braces. Brush your teeth in small, circular motions to ensure you reach food particles that may be stuck under your gum line. You will also need to brush between the braces. To do this, hold your toothbrush at an angle, so the bristles go in between each bracket. Remember to concentrate your brushing on the top of the upper braces and beneath your lower braces (where the permanent stain-causing bacteria live). It is also important to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth, followed by thorough rinsing with water. After you brush your teeth, use dental floss between your front teeth to make sure you remove food that may have lodged between teeth. You may find it difficult with braces at first, but if you do this every day, your teeth and gums will stay healthy while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment!
Food to Avoid
While you have braces, there are certain foods that you should avoid to prevent damaging the brackets:
- Sticky food such as caramel and gum.
- Chewy food such as licorice or gummy lollies.
- Hard food such as hard candy or nuts.
- Crunchy food such as popcorn.
- Food that you need to bite into such as corn on the cob or apples.
Caring for Your Invisalign Aligners
Although your Invisalign aligners will be much easier to clean than braces, they still need proper care to prevent bacteria from building. Use lukewarm water and clear antibacterial soap to brush your aligners and rinse. Avoid using toothpaste because it can cause your aligners to become discolored.
Do not eat or drink anything except for water when you are wearing your aligners. Food, and other beverages can break, stain, and scratch your aligners. When you are not wearing your aligners (during meals, when brushing your teeth, or if you decide to remove them for an event such as a sporting event), place them in the case they came in so they are well protected and you do not lose them.
Going to your regular orthodontic appointments is another way to care for your braces and Invisalign. By doing so, Dr. Pearson can accurately track the progress of your treatment and make the necessary adjustments.
If you have any questions about your orthodontic care, call us at 925-946-9155.