Braces Need Improved Oral Care

With orthodontic work come multiple things to consider. Occasionally there is discomfort as the teeth are adjusted and shifting. This can require a person to take a pain reliever from time to time. It is also necessary to think about what a person eats as some products can damage or break the appliances. One thing that not everyone puts a sufficient amount of thought into and which frequently causes problems during treatment is the fact that there is a need for elevated levels of cleaning and oral care. 
Braces in particular can cause pockets and hard to reach areas for good and bacteria. These problem areas can increase the risk of decay, plaque, stains and cavities. There are a lot of things that can be done to improve the cleanliness of the mouth during this type of treatment.

First of all, it is worth considering having more frequent dental appointments. It can be hard to get plaque and debris out of all the nooks and crannies that are around braces. By setting up slightly more frequent dentist visits, say three times or four times a year rather than twice, a patient can have a professional completely clear out any sort of problem and address potential sites of decay. This can prevent tooth loss and gum disease.

Also, while braces are installed it is necessary to brush more frequently than normal. Because these appliances catch food and hide plaque they need to be cleaned often. At home it is necessary to floss more often and especially between and around the wires and anchors. Additionally, during the day a person should brush after snacks and meals to be sure that nothing is caught in a spot where it can cause damage.

It may not be suitable for all people but an electric toothbrush helps. The vibration helps dislodge stubborn particles and gets deep between and under braces.

Be sure also to increase the healthiness of the food and drinks that are eaten. Sugary and acidic foods are even more prone to cause damage because there are so many more spots that are harder to get clean.

As a final suggestion it is worth considering incorporating an antiseptic mouthwash if you are not already using one. This will flush out and refresh the cleanliness of the mouth. This will not only help dislodge hidden debris and kill bacteria, but also will freshen breath and sterilize the metal of the appliances in the mouth.

Braces can straighten and improve the smile but they require increased oral care to ensure they do not damage teeth with decay and infections.