Braces are a significant step toward achieving your dream smile. But with braces comes the responsibility of maintaining them properly to ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and efficiently. At Baker Orthodontics, we often hear questions about how to care for braces, so we've put together this helpful guide to share practical tips and expert advice for keeping your braces in top shape.
Whether you've just started your orthodontic braces treatment or want to improve your care routine, these tips can make a world of difference.
Practicing Proper Oral Hygiene
One of the most important aspects of caring for your braces is maintaining good oral hygiene. Braces create extra areas where food and plaque can get trapped, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. To keep your teeth and braces clean, follow these essential steps:
- Brush after every meal: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth and braces. Be sure to brush at a 45-degree angle to reach beneath the brackets.
- Floss daily: Flossing with braces may feel challenging, but tools like floss threaders or water flossers make the process much easier. Proper flossing prevents plaque buildup between teeth and around braces.
- Rinse with mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and soothe gums. Look for a fluoride rinse to strengthen your enamel.
By committing to these habits, you’ll not only protect your oral health but also ensure a smoother orthodontic experience.
Watching What You Eat
Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining your braces. Certain foods can damage brackets and wires, while others can contribute to plaque buildup. Here’s what to keep in mind when planning your meals and snacks:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods: Foods like popcorn, caramel, hard candies, and nuts can damage or dislodge your braces. These should be avoided throughout your treatment.
- Cut tough foods into small pieces: Foods like apples, carrots, and crusty bread are safer when sliced into manageable bites. This reduces strain on your braces and lowers the risk of breakages.
- Opt for soft or easy-to-chew options: Focus on foods like pasta, soup, scrambled eggs, and yogurt when possible. These are easier to eat and don’t put pressure on your braces.
Being mindful of your diet prevents unnecessary orthodontic visits for repairs and helps keep your treatment on track.
Staying On Schedule with Your Orthodontist
Regular visits to your orthodontist are crucial for maintaining progress and addressing any issues with your braces. These appointments allow your orthodontist to adjust your braces, check for any problems, and ensure your treatment is on schedule.
If a bracket or wire becomes loose, or you experience any discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact us at Baker Orthodontics. Timely fixes and adjustments will prevent extended treatment times.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Braces
How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
You should brush your teeth after every meal or snack and before bed, for a total of at least four times a day. Keep a travel toothbrush handy to make brushing accessible when you're away from home. Regular brushing keeps braces and teeth clean and helps you avoid issues like cavities and gum problems.
What should I do if a bracket or wire breaks?
If a bracket or wire comes loose or breaks, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. Broken components can disrupt your treatment and delay progress. Meanwhile, orthodontic wax can provide temporary relief by covering rough edges to prevent irritation.
What Age Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?
As a parent, you want to ensure your child’s health and well-being, and that includes their smile. One question many parents face is when their child should first see an orthodontist. While you might assume braces are a concern for the teen years, the truth is orthodontic evaluations are essential much earlier than you might think.
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children visit an orthodontist by age seven. Early orthodontic evaluations allow specialists to identify potential issues and correct them while the child is still growing. But why age seven, and what does an early visit involve? Let's explore.
The Importance of Early Orthodontic Assessments
By the age of seven, a child typically has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This transitional phase allows orthodontists to assess how the teeth and jaw are developing. At this stage, your child’s orthodontist can detect problems before they worsen
Common issues evaluated during early orthodontic visits include:
- Jaw growth problems (such as an overbite or underbite) • Tooth crowding or spacing
- Misaligned bites, like crossbites
- Prolonged habits like thumb-sucking that may affect oral structures
Addressing these problems early through measures like expanders or partial braces can save time and money in the future. Plus, early orthodontic treatment often means less invasive procedures down the line.
Benefits of Starting Orthodontic Care Early
The phrase "timing is everything" certainly applies to orthodontics. Early orthodontic evaluations, often referred to as interceptive orthodontics, offer several important benefits:
- Preventing Severe Dental Problems Later
Early treatment can guide jaw growth and tooth eruption, correcting issues before they escalate into more complex problems. For example, addressing crowding or crossbites early may prevent the need for surgical treatments during adolescence.
- Improved Confidence During Growth
Children who receive early orthodontic treatment can gain confidence as their teeth align. A healthy smile positively impacts self-esteem and social interactions, even at a young age.
- A Personalized Plan for Your Child’s Future Smile
Not every evaluation results in immediate treatment. Sometimes, an orthodontist will monitor your child over time to determine the best moment to begin braces or other orthodontic appliances. However, starting the evaluation ensures an action plan is in place.
By addressing potential issues early on, your child’s path to a beautiful and healthy smile can be a smoother and more effective process.
When Is the Right Time to Act?
While age seven is an ideal time for an initial orthodontic check, it’s important to remember that not every child will require immediate treatment. Early visits serve as a proactive measure to spot and address developmental concerns at the right time.
At Baker Orthodontics, we specialize in crafting personalized treatment plans - including early orthodontic treatment to ensure every child gets the care they need. Treatments like palate expanders or space maintainers are common options for correcting certain conditions while your child’s jaw is still growing. These gentle interventions not only optimize oral development but may also reduce the time your child spends in braces during their teenage years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Orthodontics
At what age should I bring my child to an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age seven. This gives orthodontists the chance to assess jaw alignment, tooth positioning, and other potential problems during key developmental years.
Will my child need braces immediately after their first visit?
Not necessarily! Many children don’t require immediate treatment. If no problems are detected, the orthodontist will likely schedule periodic check-ins to monitor progress. If treatment is recommended, your orthodontist will develop a customized plan tailored to your child’s needs.
At Baker Orthodontics, we believe every smile tells a story, and we’re here to help your child’s story be one of confidence and health. We’re ready to make your child feel comfortable, supported, and excited about their smile. Call us at 661-322-2263 or contact us online to book your child’s complimentary orthodontic consultation. Together, we’ll take the first step toward your child’s best smile.
