As much as braces are good in correcting the smile and improving the position of teeth, they are only so if well maintained to go on satisfying their purpose. It also means that braces function optimally and your child’s oral health is well taken care of. Below is a guideline to assist every parent and kid on how to maintain their braces.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Daily brushing and flossing is very crucial especially for those with braces on their teeth because this makes them vulnerable to build up of bacteria. This is especially so since braces make dental hygiene quite challenging as it is hard to cleave around the wires and between the teeth and braces plates.
Clean the interdental spaces by flossing the teeth, and use a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoride containing toothpaste when brushing the teeth at least for two times a day.
While brushing, pay lots of attention to every bracket and wire so that you do not damage your braces. Flossing is also important.
Use an Orthodontic Wax
Some people may develop mouth sores due to rubbing of the braces against the inside part of the mouth. To treat these areas one should use orthodontic wax. You can just snap off a small piece of wax and place it where the braces are causing an Problem such as irritation. This shall help shield the inside of the mouth as well as minimize any discomfort.
Do Not Take Sticky and Hard Foods
Some types of foods are unhealthy for braces and may easily get lodged between them. Some foods should not be taken by a person who has a dental procedure coming up, these include gum, caramel, and taffy because they are sticky, and foods such as nuts, popcorn, and ice because they are hard. These can develop and extend brackets or wires and hence leads to the delays in the treatment.
Regular Orthodontic Check-ups
As the matter of fact, it is imperative to pay visits to the orthodontist at a fixed time. These check-ups are important in that it confirms that the braces are operating in the right way, and corrections if any are made. Your orthodontist will also evaluate for the possibility of any complications and solve them accordingly.
Handle Braces Gently
Take precautions while consuming foods and products that you use to clean your teeth with. Try to minimize forceful movements with your mouth and or biting on objects by refraining from using your teeth to chomp on something hard or to cut into packages.
This poses some inconvenience as you have to practice good oral hygiene, it can also harm your braces. If you get any issue for example a fractured bracket or wire, you should consult your orthodontist for a fix.
Encourage Good Habits
Let your child know that he or she needs to brush his or her teeth. Finally, explain to them the necessity of brushing their teeth and flossing them and also the care they should apply on the brace they are wearing. They can also be encouraged and motivated through positive reinforcement and kept responsible for their conduct.
For you to be reminded that you are wearing braces and for convenience if you lose any of them ensure that you have a braces care kit.
One should also know that having a braces care kit will also be of benefit, mostly when it comes to using braces, for cleaning purposes only. These are some of the items that are suggested to be packed; a travel toothbrush, tooth paste, floss, orthodontic wax and someday a mirror. These utensils are important to ensure that a child brushes his or her teeth any time he or she is out of the home.
In order for the braces of your child to always be in its best condition and for your child to achieve the best result, it is wise to follow the tips mentioned above. In addition to the comfort in wearing braces, taking proper care of kids teeth will lead to the best results.
