Your teeth will need some extra help during this time

Caring for your oral health when you have braces is a bit trickier but the payoff is amazing if done well. Follow these six tips and your path to beautiful straight teeth should be a bit more simple.

1. Don’t skip brushing your teeth

It’s recommended that you brush at least twice a day for 2 minutes each time. You might want to up the ante on this when you have braces though as they give food particles more places to hide and build up. If you are unable to brush after each meal, try to at least swish some water around to give them a good rinse. It’s always good to keep a toothbrush on you when out and about to keep your teeth clean and your braces free of debris.

2. Keep spare toothbrushes

Usually we’d tell you to replace your toothbrush every 3 months but those of you with braces will understand that you’ll go through toothbrushes a lot faster as your braces will create far more wear and tear on the bristles.

You may need to invest in special toothpick-like tools with bristles to get in to those hard to reach places that a standard toothbrush will find more difficult.

3. Flossing is more important than ever

Once you have your braces applied, you might need to reteach yourself how to floss but mastering this should be your priority.

Tools like a floss threader might come in handy or, that little toothpick tool with bristles we mentioned earlier may also assist you.

You may find that waxed floss is better for you during this time as it won’t shred as easily.

4. Some foods may need to take a backseat

A low sugar diet is great for your teeth in general but, more important than ever when you have braces. Given the additional hurdles you’ll be facing in keeping your teeth clean, you’ll want to do everything you can to avoid plaque build up as this can form cavities in your teeth and you already have enough to deal with right now.

If you want a snack, there’s a few that a better for braces wearers like cheese, yoghurt, fruits and veggies.

Sticky, chewy and hard foods are also a no-go area as they can damage your braces. Try to avoid lollies, popcorn and caramel as these are like magnets for braces and difficult to clean and remove around them.

When it comes to fruit a veggies try cutting them into smaller pieces rather than biting directly into them.

5. Bad habits become worse

Chewing on anything like pens, hard objects or even your nails should be stopped immediately. Doing this can bend the wires of your braces and loosen them causing more unwanted maintenance. Stopping these habits is also a wine for your overall oral health.

6. Keep your regular dental appointments

If your orthodontist and dentist are the same person, then this is super easy. Going to the orthodontist only isn’t enough for your oral care, you also need your regular 6 monthly dental check-ups for thorough cleanings.