7 Practices for Maintaining Braces in San Bernardino

Braces in San Bernardino are an excellent way to achieve the beautiful smile you've always dreamed of, but they require extra care to ensure your treatment stays on track. While braces work to align your teeth and improve your bite, certain habits and actions can hinder the effectiveness of your treatment.

Previously, we explored the process of teeth straightening with braces in San Bernardino. In this blog, we will outline the essential practices you should adopt to maintain your braces effectively and avoid unnecessary complications.

7 Things Not to Do While Wearing Braces in San Bernardino

1. Eating Hard and Sticky Foods:

   When wearing braces, avoid eating hard and sticky foods that can damage your brackets and wires. Foods like caramel, gum, hard candy, ice, and nuts can easily get stuck in your braces or cause the wires to bend. This not only interrupts the orthodontic process but also increases the risk of cavities and oral infections.

   To ensure the longevity of your braces and avoid unnecessary trips to the dentist in San Bernardino for repairs, stick to softer foods like pasta, yogurt, and tender fruits. If you're craving something crunchy, opt for foods that are less likely to damage your braces, such as cut-up vegetables.

2. Using Teeth as Tools:

   Using teeth to open packages or bite objects can cause damage, especially with braces. The force can bend the wires or dislodge the brackets. Even chewing on pens or pencils can lead to discomfort or broken braces.

   To prevent needing emergency dental treatment in San Bernadino, always use appropriate tools for opening or cutting objects. Treat your teeth with care and avoid using them for non-eating purposes.

3. Skipping Oral Hygiene:

   Braces require more diligent oral hygiene. Food particles and plaque can get trapped between the brackets and wires, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay and gum disease. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least three times a day, especially after meals, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

   Flossing is also essential to remove debris. Special tools like floss threaders can make this easier. Poor hygiene can lead to cavities, gum infections, or bad breath, all of which can prolong your treatment.

4. Neglecting Regular Orthodontic Visits:

   To ensure your braces are working effectively, attend regular orthodontic appointments. These visits allow your orthodontist to monitor progress, tighten wires, and address any issues like loose brackets or broken wires. Missing appointments can delay your treatment and extend the time you need to wear braces.

5. Drinking Sugary Beverages:

   Sugary drinks like soda, sports drinks, and sweetened teas can harm your teeth when wearing braces. The sugar can feed bacteria and lead to plaque buildup around your brackets, increasing the risk of cavities.

   If you occasionally indulge in sugary drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterward. For optimal oral health, limit these beverages and choose water or milk instead.

6. Smoking or Using Tobacco Products:

   Smoking can stain your teeth, slow healing, and increase your risk of gum disease, especially with braces. Tobacco use can also lead to bad breath and compromise your overall oral health. For a healthier smile and effective treatment, avoid smoking during your orthodontic journey.

7. Ignoring Elastic Wear Instructions:

   If your orthodontist has provided elastics, wear them as directed. They play a crucial role in aligning your teeth and correcting your bite. Not wearing them as prescribed can delay your treatment and affect your results.

Conclusion

Wearing braces in San Bernardino is an exciting step toward a straighter, healthier smile, but it's essential to follow these practices to ensure a smooth and effective treatment. By avoiding harmful habits, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and attending regular appointments, you can achieve the best results.

If you encounter issues like broken brackets or wires, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Myron Massey for emergency dental treatment in San Bernardino. Begin your journey to a brighter smile by scheduling a consultation with our experienced orthodontist.

Call 909-888-1301 today to book your appointment and keep your braces treatment on track!