Maintaining Braces Las Vegas Orthodontics Part II

To read Part I of Maintaining Braces click here

This Christmas tree-shaped brush is specially designed for cleaning between teeth with braces. The brush fits underneath the wires of braces and can clean under them. Make sure you brush in every direction to get the food out of every crevice.

Flossing with braces is also a little more complicated. To start, fit one end under the wire and slide the floss between the teeth. Use gentle motions to loosen the food between the teeth. Be careful not to use too much force or you’ll risk damaging your braces or breaking the floss.

The best way to keep your braces and teeth looking good are to avoid certain categories of particularly destructive food. Below are some examples of food to avoid:
• Tough, hard-to-bite foods (apples, bagels, etc.)
• Chewy, sticky foods (taffy, caramel, gum, etc.)
• Crunchy foods (hard pretzels, popcorn, nuts, etc.)
• Corn on the cob
• Ice

Maintaining Braces Part I

Braces are used to straighten teeth and make them look their best. However, wearing braces and failing to keep them clean can stain them and even lead to additional dental problems.

Braces have many small parts that tend to attract food and keep it stuck there. The best way to deal with trapped food is to carefully brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after every meal. Brushing with braces is slightly different from brushing without them. First, with a regular toothbrush, brush downward from the top and upward from the bottom on each tooth.

If you have any questions about Braces and other Braces for Adults and Kids please call (702) 463.7400 or click here to submit your question.