Brace Face for the Win!

 Brace Face for the Win!

When your mouth is jam-packed with extras, such as bands, brackets, and wires, oral hygiene becomes increasingly difficult AND important. Not only does all of this new hardware impair you from brushing the usual way, but they also interfere with how you chew your food. This is not ideal due to the fact that your body’s natural chewing process actually helps clean your gums and teeth. 

With these differences taken into account, your mouth is incredibly susceptible to cavities. Properly fitting bands and brackets usually protect the covered portion of the tooth, but the brackets and wires that lay on the outside of the teeth make it hard to brush under, leaving you at risk of never brushing certain areas of your teeth. 

The areas that are left un-brushed are made up of trapped food-particles and plaque, which is a breeding ground for decay. Gum disease is also at risk for developing, causing swelling, which makes it even more challenging, not to mention painful. This improper care leads to decay and staining in the long run. 

In order to proactively work against the decay, you should try to brush within 5 minutes after eating food, whether that be a full meal or just a snack. You need to make sure that you are brushing between and under the wires when possible. If you have issues with this, try asking your dentist about his or her recommendations regarding keeping your smile healthy while in your braces.