When you invest in something nice, you take pleasure in maintaining it. Part of the pleasure of owning a nice home, for example, is making sure that it’s in tip-top shape. Your smile should be the same way, yet taking care of your teeth is usually treated like a chore. That can be a problem if you have braces because improper maintenance can potentially cause them to fail. Taking care of your smile should be a point of pride; here are a few ways to make that upkeep easier and to prevent orthodontic emergencies.
Tip #1: Avoid Bad Habits
Of course, one of the best ways to maintain your braces is to avoid habits that can harm them. Food is one of the most obvious examples; you should be cautious with sticky, gummy, or hard snacks. Avoid chewing gum, popcorn, tortilla chips, or anything else that could potentially pop a bracket.
You may also be unknowingly doing damage to your braces while stressed. Nervous habits, like chewing nails or pencils, can lead to loose brackets or broken wires if you aren’t careful. If you’re anxious, try deep breathing or other stress-relievers that are a little bit easier on your teeth.
Tip #2: Have the Right Tools
Maintaining your braces is easier if you’re prepared. Build or buy a portable braces kit that has a toothbrush, floss, and dental wax in a small, inconspicuous package. With the proper planning, you should be able to put something together that fits easily into a pocket, backpack, or purse.
If you’re an athlete, it may also be worth investing in a fitted mouthguard to protect your braces. Otherwise, one elbow to the face could mean disaster.
Tip #3: Practice Good Dental Hygiene
Finally, but most importantly, you should prioritize keeping your braces clean. Be sure to brush at least two times a day, and floss at least once. If you struggle to floss, use a floss threader or water pick to make the process a little easier. You should also schedule a biannual checkup & cleaning to keep your teeth as healthy as they can be.
Preventing an orthodontic emergency feels more daunting than it really is. Ultimately, if you take care of your teeth you should be fine. Maintenance should be part of the fun, and it will make your new smile all the more satisfying.
About the Author
Dr. Marissa Mikolich is an orthodontist who is passionate about her work. She loves getting to know her patients and guiding them toward their perfect smiles. She is a graduate of The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, and she has a Master of Science degree in oral biology from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. If you’re concerned about an orthodontic emergency or have questions about your braces, Dr. Mikolich can be reached at her website or by phone at (330) 967-4110.