Metal braces are a time-consuming process, but with proper post-care the results can last a lifetime. That means it’s worth it to take the necessary steps during your treatment if it means a healthier and straighter smile. That’s why your dentist is writing all about the foods to avoid while undergoing treatment, how to properly clean your braces, and how often you should see your orthodontist for checkups and adjustments.
Trust us, you’ll want to make these tips into habits. Your future self will thank you later.
For Smoother Treatment, Avoid These Foods
When it comes to foods, you can place them into two categories; foods that are tooth-friendly and those that are not. Foods that are highly acidic are particularly harmful because they can easily get underneath your braces and cause tooth decay. So, the next time you make a meal or go out to dinner, keep these minimally acidic foods in mind:
- Bananas, mangoes, and melons
- Milk
- Water
- Carrots, lettuce, and cucumbers
- Meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, crackers, pasta, and soup
Additionally, you’ll need to watch out for foods that are high in acidity, such as:
- Apples, oranges, pears, plums, peaches, cherries, raspberries, and pineapples
- Pickles and tomatoes
- Soft drinks, sports drinks, fruit drinks and juices
- Vinaigrette dressing, salsas, and BBQ sauces
While some of the foods you should avoid are healthy for your overall and even oral health, they can easily get caught in traditional braces. Stick to tooth-friendly foods to make your braces treatment a smooth one.
Know the Proper Technique to Brushing with Braces
When brushing, use a fluoridated toothpaste and soft, compact toothbrush. Place your brush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and gently brush along the gum line where the gums and teeth meet. Just like with regular brushing, use small circular motions to dislodge any food in your wiring. Brush your braces firmly enough so that the bristles spread into the gaps between your tooth and the wire and focus on each tooth for about 10 seconds.
If your dentist instructed you to wear elastics with your metal braces, be sure to remove these before brushing and replace them after you finish. For additional protection, use a fluoridated mouthwash to prevent cavities, white spots, and excess bacteria from settling in hard-to-reach areas. If you have trouble, use a battery-powered toothbrush to brush your metal braces.
When to See Your Orthodontist
Typically, dentists recommend that you see them every six months for cleanings and examinations. However, you’ll need to visit your orthodontist every four to six weeks for regular adjustments to your metal braces. These follow-up visits are intended to keep your braces treatment on track and ensure that teeth are moving into the right positions.
If you skip your follow-up it could put your entire treatment at risk, so make the effort to get to your orthodontist. Once the braces come off, you’ll be glad you had such a strict regimen. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist today to learn more about braces treatment!
About the Author
Dr. Amin Mason attended the Ohio State College of Dentistry to earn his dental degree and the University of Colorado, Denver to obtain his certificate in orthodontics and MS in Dentistry. To learn more about his many clinical interests in orthodontics or see the practice in person, contact him at (614) 781-6990 or visit his website.
