Are You Taking Proper Care Of Your Teeth While Wearing Braces?

You know that brushing and flossing are important while wearing braces, but there are many other things you need to do to protect your smile. Since your teeth are not fully exposed while wearing the braces, taking care of them can be challenging. However, with the right regimen in place, you can protect your teeth. Here are some tips for taking care of your teeth while wearing braces. 

Use Hydrogen Peroxide

Harmful bacteria can sometimes hide in the spaces beneath and near your braces. As a result, you can develop gum disease, which can lead to bigger dental problems. Although there are many mouth rinses available, a safe alternative that can help keep your gums and teeth in good condition and also provide some soothing after tightening is hydrogen peroxide.  

The peroxide works to alleviate some of the irritation and pain that occurs after tightening. It also helps to prevent infection and lower the chances of you experiencing irritation from the braces.  

Watch Your Diet

Obviously, eliminating or lowering the amount of sweets in your diet is important to your dental health, but there are other changes that you should incorporate while wearing the braces. There are certain nutrients and vitamins that are even more important to your overall dental health because of the braces.  

For instance, adding more calcium to your diet can help prevent gum disease and strengthen your teeth. You can find calcium in foods such as beans and cheese. You should also incorporate more iron-rich foods in your diet. Iron can help lower the chances of experiencing mouth sores, and can be found in nuts and red meats.  

Do Not Over-Brush Your Teeth

Some people mistakenly believe that wearing braces means they have to scrub at their teeth more to keep them clean. However, this can be extremely damaging to your teeth. It is important to remember that beneath the braces are your teeth and they are just as vulnerable to too much pressure as they were before the braces were installed.  

When you brush your teeth too hard, you can damage the enamel. Damaged enamel does not offer the protection you need to keep cavities and other dental problems from developing. To avoid over-brushing, stick to using a soft-bristled toothbrush.  

Talk to your orthodontist about other ways you can keep your teeth in good condition while wearing braces. He or she could even provide additional tips that are specific to your current dental health.