Daily Habits for Optimal Houston Braces Hygiene

Achieving optimal hygiene with Houston braces is necessary for preventing dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and staining around brackets. Patients with braces are prone to plaque, making thorough cleaning essential. Our top-rated dentists at Centra Dental are here to make sure that patients are well-educated on taking care of their oral health. Here’s how to maintain the best possible dental hygiene while wearing braces.

Brushing Your Houston Braces Effectively

When you’re wearing Houston braces, food is more likely to get stuck between your teeth, so it’s essential to brush your teeth at least three times a day — after each meal and before bedtime. This helps remove food particles and plaque that can get trapped around the braces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush designed for braces. Brush above and below the brackets while angling the brush to clean all sides of the braces. Pay special attention to the areas between the wires and teeth and the areas between the brackets and gums.

Flossing Daily

Your Houston dentist will recommend that you use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to thread the floss behind the wire. Flossing with braces is challenging but essential for removing plaque and food particles that a toothbrush can't reach. Gently floss between each set of teeth and along the gum line. Consider using a water flosser for an easier and more effective way to clean around braces and between teeth.

Rinsing with Fluoride Mouthwash

Aside from brushing and flossing, rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash daily can help reduce plaque when you have Houston braces. Rinsing can prevent demineralization and strengthen your tooth enamel. Mouthwash can access hard-to-reach areas, offering additional cleaning and protection against cavities.

Avoiding Harmful Food and Habits

When you’re on traditional metal braces, it’s important to be mindful of your diet. Avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods that can damage your braces or become lodged in them. Cut down on sugary and acidic foods and drinks to reduce the risk of tooth decay and enamel erosion. Choose softer foods and cut them into small, manageable pieces. Dentists also discourage habits that can damage braces and teeth, such as nail-biting, pencil-chewing, and using teeth as tools.

Regular Dental Checkups

Taking care of your braces requires discipline so you stay on track. Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, in addition to your orthodontic appointments. Professional cleanings can remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing might miss. If you experience any issues with your braces, such as loose or broken brackets, contact your orthodontist immediately to avoid any potential hygiene problems.

Schedule an Appointment for Houston Braces Today

Maintaining optimal hygiene with Houston braces requires diligence and a commitment to thorough cleaning practices. By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. Centra Dental is passionate about beautiful and healthy smiles. Visit our clean and safe facility today for a stress-free dental experience.