subject: 5 Tips For Taking Care Of Your Braces [print this page] A set of braces can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 with treatment times varying between 4 months to 6 years depending on the severity of the case. This orthodontic procedure is an extensive investment in both time and money, therefore it is crucial to take proper care and caution to ensure that optimal results are being yielded from the treatment. There are a few important tips to consider when taking care of your braces.
Brushing
Keeping up with your oral hygiene by brushing them at least twice a day is by far one of the most important ways to protect your orthodontic investment. Your teeth and braces should be comprehensively brushed, both inside and outside, including the gums. It is best to brush in circular motions to completely remove any food and plaque from the surface of your teeth. Brushing should preferably be performed after each time you eat.
Flossing
Flossing enables you to remove the plaque that your toothbrush is not able to, especially between your teeth and underneath your wires. It is important to "run" the floss through each tooth in your mouth, as well as beneath each archwire. Flossing with braces may be somewhat difficult initially, but once done on a daily basis it becomes fairly easy.
Eating
Unfortunately, certain foods that may be highly enjoyable may adversely wreak havoc on your braces. Hard candies and food with a tough and chewy texture can all damage the braces by weakening the bond of the bands or even bending your wires out of shape. It is also important to consider how foods are eaten. Instead of biting down and sinking your front teeth into a piece of food such as an apple, it is best to cut it up into smaller pieces.
Malfunctions
It is important to be proactive and prompt when issues arise with your braces. If expanders become lose or if wires break, it is important to notify your orthodontist as soon as possible to help guide you on how to either fix them yourself or schedule an appointment to have them corrected. It is optimal to be as gentle with your braces as possible to avoid mishaps in the first place, however if they do occur, do not avoid them.
Maintenance
Make sure that you are properly following up with your orthodontist as frequently as recommended and diligently attend all scheduled appointments. Your orthodontist will be able to correct any issues with your braces that you may not have noticed, as well as asses and evaluate the progression of your treatment and determine if any aspect of the treatment must be modified.
