While wearing a brace, you need to take extra care of your teeth and gums, which means following a strict daily oral healthcare routine. Appliance should be cleaned by regular brushing around and between the bracket and next to the gums at least three times a day, especially after meals. A fluoride mouth rinse is recommended on a daily basis. If your gums bleed you are not keeping them sufficiently clean. Failure to keep the appliances clean can lead to progressive decay or permanent staining of the enamel.
Any hard, chewy and sticky foods can break your brace. Toffee, chewing gum, sweets, chocolate bars, toast etc. must be avoided. Also fizzy drinks including diet drinks, excessive amounts of fruit juice should be avoid. These contain acids which can damage your teeth, especially if they are not kept meticulously clean around the appliance brackets.
Really enjoyable hard foods can be cut in pieces and chewed gently at the back of your teeth! For your orthodontic treatment to work well and in the shortest possible time it is important you take care of your teeth and brace.
We will advise you on how to take care of your braces after they have been fitted and provide you with a instruction leaflet to take home.
It is important that you see your own dentist for regular examinations.