Getting braces is a step toward achieving the smile you’ve always wanted.  Anyone who has had braces understands that maintaining them and caring for your teeth while wearing braces is just as important as getting them put on at the orthodontist in the first place. Your new braces will require special care to ensure that they work as intended – and to help you keep that beautiful smile in good shape. Caring for your teeth while wearing braces doesn’t have to be so complicated, as long as you keep these tips in mind:

Brushing

At Matza and Co. Orthodontics, we recommend brushing your teeth four times daily, especially during orthodontic treatment. This helps to avoid the accumulation of food particles in your teeth and braces. The best times to brush are in the morning after breakfast, after lunch or right after school, after dinner, and finally, one thorough brushing just before bed.

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush all surfaces, including your tongue. Move the brush in small, circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth, between braces, and the surface of each tooth. It will take you several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Expect to replace your toothbrush more often due to excess wear.

Flossing

Do not underestimate the importance of flossing on a regular basis to get food particles and plaque out from in between your teeth, where small particles can accumulate. Your Boca Raton smile specialists at Matza and Co. recommend using the reusable floss threader provided by our office to floss under your archwire and between the metal along with your teeth and gums for a healthy mouth and bright smile. You will be able to feel when the tooth is clean and hear the squeak of the floss against your clean teeth. Use care around your archwire and do not floss too forcefully around it or put too much pressure on it. Take your time and get all the crevices to keep your mouth healthy and breath smelling fresh. Flossing takes more time and patience when you are wearing braces, but it is important to floss your teeth every day.

Rinsing

Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic rinse can help reduce inflammation and irritation of your gums. We recommend finding a rinse with peroxyl and using half a capful to rinse your mouth for one minute, before spitting it out. You may use Peroxyl up to four times daily following your schedule for brushing: in the morning, after meals (or after school) and before bed. This rinse helps heal your mouth from canker sores, irritation from the metal rubbing on your gums, or when you bite your cheek. Your orthodontist will also apply fluoride to your teeth to reduce decay and help prevent damage from exposure to acids in common foods. Fluoride gel needs to stay on for 30 minutes for maximum effectiveness.

As your Boca Raton smile specialists, Matza & Co. Orthodontics is the right choice for you and your family’s orthodontic treatment. Our entire staff is passionate about creating and maintaining healthy, beautiful smiles. Contact us today and take the first steps towards getting that smile you’ve always dreamed of for yourself or for your kids! Visit us at https://bmatza.com or call us directly at (561) 368-3480 to schedule your complimentary first consultation!