It’s critical that children with braces maintain a high level of dental hygiene. You may have noticed the anxiety in children with braces, who perhaps ask themselves, “Does it hurt when you get braces off?” or “Can you eat pizza with braces?”
As a parent, you should help your child keep their teeth clean and teach them how best to brush with braces on. Proper dental care while still wearing braces will help you prevent discoloration and cavities. It usually occurs where the brackets are attached to the teeth. Some of the routine practices are as outlined below
Rinsing and Brushing
To avoid bad breath, your child should rinse the mouth with water at least three times a day. It helps to loosen food particles that might be trapped in the brackets and wires, thus making brushing easier. Handle the situation quickly by knowing the type of foods to avoid. Regular brushing prevents the creation of pockets that initiate decay, while a fluoride rinse keeps the teeth strong and healthy.
Flossing
Flossing with brackets and wires in the way is sometimes difficult. Therefore, use the many flossing options to help your child do it once per day. It’s vital for healthy gums. Flossing loosens food debris, reaches the areas where a toothbrush can’t, and prevents the hardening of food particles into tartar.
Regular Cleanings
What does an orthodontist do besides fixing braces? Well, they also conduct cleaning and checkups every six months. So make sure this important date between your child and the technician happens. Our orthodontist will point out the areas that need close attention and will also examine the health of the teeth in general, and help in cleaning areas around the braces.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene Away from Home
It’s easier to monitor oral hygiene at home because you’re close to your child. However, challenges may arise when they are at school or traveling. Pack a travel toothbrush and toothpaste for your child. While at school, particularly after lunch, he can get to the washrooms to rinse and brush. When on transit, spare time on the road and attend to the dental hygiene of your child.
Tips Regarding Food
Stick to soft food during the first week of wearing braces. The teeth are still sore, and you wouldn’t want to experience some discomfort. Generally, avoid hard and sticky foods such as pizza and ice, and eat less food with high sugar content.
Contact Us
To learn more about oral hygiene, reach out to the professionals at Runnels Orthodontics in Destin and Inlet Beach, FL. We also serve residents in Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Freeport, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Panama City Beach, and Panama City. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for you or your child!
