Orthodontic Care

 

You should continue to see your family dentist for routine dental care throughout your orthodontic treatment.

You will be shown the proper care of your braces when your orthodontic treatment begins.

 

Click here for our instructional video on how to brush with braces.

 

Note: If your gums bleed when brushing, do not avoid brushing, but rather continue stimulating the area with the bristles. Be sure to angle your toothbrush so that the area under your gum line is cleaned. After 3 or 4 days of proper brushing, the bleeding should stop and your gums should be healthy again.

 

FLOSSING: Use a special floss threader to floss with your braces on. Be sure to floss at least once per day.

 

FLUORIDE RINSE OR GEL: May be recommended for preventive measures.

 

Retainer Care

 

Clean the retainer by brushing with toothpaste. If you are wearing a lower fixed retainer be extra careful to brush the wire and the inside of the lower teeth. Always bring your retainer to each appointment. Avoid flipping the retainer with your tongue, this can cause damage to your teeth. Place the retainer in the plastic case when it is removed from your mouth. Never wrap the retainer in a paper napkin or tissue, someone may throw it away. Don't put it in your pocket or you may break or lose it. Excessive heat will warp and ruin the retainer.

 

Click here for a link to more information about keeping your teeth clean.

 

Proper Diet

 

Click here for a link to some cookbooks for those in Orthodontic care.

 

Avoid Hard, Sticky or Tough Foods such as: Pizza Crust, Hard Bread Rolls, Nuts, Hard Sweets, Toffees and Popcorn.

 

Cut these foods into small pieces and chew with the back teeth: Apples, Pears, Carrots, Celery, Corn on the Cobb, Chicken Wings and Pizza.