Learn how to take care of your braces or Invisalign at home
Taking care of your orthodontic appliances at home is crucial for achieving the best results. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your treatment goes smoothly and your smile stays healthy.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Braces
Cleaning braces requires a bit more effort than brushing alone. Here’s a step-by-step routine to keep your teeth and braces clean:
- Rinse your mouth: Start by rinsing your mouth with water to dislodge any loose food particles.
- Brush your teeth: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle your brush at 45 degrees to the gumline and clean each tooth individually. Make sure to brush the brackets and wires as well.
- Interdental brush: Use an interdental brush (proxy brush) to clean around the brackets and wires. These small brushes can reach areas that a regular toothbrush might miss.
- Flossing: Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to get between your teeth. Flossing daily is essential, even with braces.
- Mouthwash: Finish with an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Check Your Braces: Check your braces once a week for anything loose or bent. If a bracket or band comes loose or you break a wire, please call our office so we can arrange an appointment to repair it. If you lose your rubber bands, we can mail more to you or you can come by to pick some up.
Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are removable, making oral hygiene easier. Follow these steps to keep your aligners and teeth clean:
- Remove your aligners: Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.
- Brush and floss your teeth: Brush and floss after every meal before putting your aligners back in.
- Clean your aligners: Gently brush your aligners with a soft toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap. Avoid using toothpaste as it can scratch the aligners.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water before putting them back in your mouth.
Taking Care of Your Braces Elastics
Rubber bands called elastics are attached to your braces to help move your teeth into the correct positions. You must always wear them and change them daily.
- Only remove your elastics when brushing your teeth, gums, and braces after meals.
- Consider carrying a few extra with you, so if one breaks you can replace it right away. Our office will provide more when your supply runs low.
- Change them when directed to ensure they do not lose their elasticity or become worn out.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Certain foods can damage your braces or make cleaning more difficult. Avoid:
- Sticky foods: Caramel, chewing gum, and taffy can stick to brackets and wires.
- Hard foods: Nuts, popcorn, and hard candies can break or bend your braces.
- Crunchy foods: Raw vegetables and fruits like carrots and apples should be cut into small pieces.
- Sugary foods: Limit sugary snacks and drinks to prevent cavities.
Dealing with Discomfort
Braces
It’s normal to experience some discomfort, especially after adjustments. To alleviate pain:
- Over-the-counter pain relief: Medications like Tylenol or Advil can help.
- Orthodontic wax: Apply wax to brackets or wires that are irritating your cheeks or gums.
- Saltwater rinse: A warm saltwater rinse can soothe sore spots in your mouth.
Invisalign
Invisalign is generally more comfortable, but you might still experience some discomfort:
- Switch aligners at night: Start wearing new aligners before bed to sleep through the initial adjustment period.
- Cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling and pain.
Regular Check-ups
Regular dental visits to your orthodontist are crucial for monitoring your progress and making necessary adjustments. We recommend scheduling appointments every 4-6 weeks for braces and every 6-8 weeks for Invisalign. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you experience any issues between visits.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in your smile and overall dental health. By following this home care guide, you can ensure that your journey is as smooth and effective as possible. At our dental practice, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you have any questions or need additional tips, feel free to reach out to us. Here’s to a beautiful, healthy smile!
