Whether your child is wearing fixed metal braces or a removable appliance, proper cleaning of their teeth and gums is essential. So what can you be doing to make sure your child is keeping their oral health in check while they’re wearing braces?
Best tips for your child
Careful cleaning is required with braces, as plaque bacteria are easily trapped inside and around them. Take off elastics and any other removable parts of your orthodontic appliance. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the wires and pins of your braces. Brush from the top of each wire down to the bottom. Take your time to ensure that all plaque and debris are removed and that you work all the way around the upper and lower teeth.
Floss once a day. Have your dental professional show you the BEST WAY TO FLOSS, or follow the instructions on the product package. You may also want to use a flossing product designed for braces and orthodontic work, like a floss threader.
Rinse thoroughly with water or mouth rinse, and examine your teeth and braces in the mirror. Speak to your dental professional for any advice on mouth rinses and if they are required.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks as these can cause staining and decay around your brackets. These stains can be permanent and will become more obvious later when the braces are removed, which will not help you to achieve the perfect smile.
Seek regular oral health advice and professional dental cleaning with your local dentist or orthodontist.
How to care for a retainer?
Caring for your retainer consists of keeping your retainer bacteria-free. Use a toothbrush to clean your retainer morning and night, avoid using toothpaste (use soap under lukewarm water) and do not rinse the retainer with mouth rinse as this can cause staining. Store your retainer at room temperature, in a clean glass of water overnight or as advised by your orthodontist.
Thanks to the wonderful Kay (Karishma), our Oral Health Therapist at the Werribee Clinic, for all of this great information. If you want to talk to her about this or any other questions you may have, please contact us on 03 9372 8960.
References:
https://orthodonticsaustralia.org.au/caring-for-braces/
