If you are going for the Orthodontic treatment for treating your teeth misalignment then you have to take care of several aspects related to it. Taking care of your braces is one of the important aspects of this process.

Putting the braces on the teeth for a long period for teeth straightening is not simple. During the treatment process, there are chances of damage in the braces during the treatment process and your other daily routing also gets affected.

Damage to the braces during the treatment process can disrupt the treatment process which may extend the results of the treatment. It will also cost you more for correcting the braces from the Orthodontist.

It is not simple to take off braces, you need a little different approach for taking care of the braces.

What is the possibility of damage to the braces?

There are different problems concerning braces during the Orthodontic treatment process.

Here are some of the damage possible to the braces during the treatment: 

Chewing Hard or sticky foods

Chewing on hard or sticky foods can put excessive pressure on the braces and may cause brackets or wires to break or bend. It’s generally recommended to avoid foods like popcorn, nuts, hard candies, chewing gum, and sticky candies while wearing braces.

Poor oral hygiene

Inadequate oral hygiene can contribute to the development of plaque and tartar around the braces, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum problems.

These oral health issues can indirectly affect the braces if they compromise the supporting structures.

Accidents or injuries

Participation in contact sports or engaging in activities that pose a risk of facial injury can potentially damage braces. Wearing a mouthguard during such activities can help protect both the braces and the mouth.

Improper handling or maintenance

Mishandling or incorrect maintenance of braces can lead to damage. For example, using excessive force when brushing or flossing, using sharp objects to clean the braces, or not following the orthodontist’s instructions can cause problems.

Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, can exert excessive pressure on the braces and lead to damage over time. In some cases, a nightguard or other protective measures may be recommended to prevent harm to the braces.

How To Take Care Of Braces?

If you have to avoid any damage to the braces then you need to take proper care of the braces. 

Here are some ways to take care of braces:

Brush thoroughly

Brush your teeth after every meal and snack using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Pay attention to all areas around the braces, including brackets, wires, and gums.

Angle the bristles to clean under the wires and remove any food particles or plaque. Consider using an interdental brush or a water flosser to clean between the brackets.

Using Orthodontic Flossing Tool

When you have braces, it is difficult to floss properly through the wires of the braces. Your braces cannot reach the proper places where the food debris needs to be removed.

Some of these brushes exert quick pressure of water between the teeth for the removal of food debris.

Avoiding sticky and gummy food

Sticky and gummy foods have chances of getting stuck to the braces which can pluck the braces from the position or they might distort the braces position. So, sticky and gummy foods must be avoided altogether.

Use orthodontic wax

If the braces cause irritation or soreness in your mouth, apply orthodontic wax over the brackets or wires that are causing discomfort. The wax is like a barrier between the soft tissues and the braces of your mouth which reduces friction.

Attend regular check-ups

Visit your orthodontist as scheduled for adjustments and check-ups. They will monitor your progress, make any necessary changes to your braces, and ensure everything is functioning correctly. Don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist if you experience any problems or discomfort between appointments.

Protect your braces during physical activities

If you participate in contact sports or activities that may pose a risk of injury to your mouth, consider wearing a mouthguard. A mouthguard can help protect your teeth and braces from damage.

These are all about the damage that may happen to the braces and the proper care you need to take. The braces treatment is very crucial where you have to take special care to ensure proper results.