Our office is currently only addressing emergency orthodontic cases, as we encourage people to stay home and help slow the continued spread of COVID-19. Which means caring for your teeth, gums, and yes, your orthodontics and appliances, is more important than ever. In today’s blog, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist discusses what you can do to safeguard your oral health from home.
Daily Brushing and Flossing
Practices across the country, whether they offer orthodontics like our office, or general dental care, are only providing emergency services at the moment. Which means you can’t receive common preventive treatments, like checkups and cleanings. So, taking steps to avoid cavities and gum disease at home is more important than ever. You should brush your teeth when you wake up and again before bed, for about two minutes each time. Be sure you use a toothpaste with fluoride too! Floss as well. Doing so removes food particles and deprives harmful bacteria of the fuel they need to create plaque and weaken enamel and inflame gum tissue.
Keeping Your Braces Clean
Along with your teeth, you should also brush your arch wires and brackets too. This helps remove food particles stuck to the braces, limiting the risk of tooth decay and periodontal issues. If you have aligners or retainers, be sure to clean them in the morning with soap and water, and take them out before meals or when drinking anything besides water. You will also need to find time daily to soak them as well. Keeping them free of bacteria is very beneficial for your overall oral health!
Better Snack Habits
Try to avoid sticky foods, which could become trapped in your braces and allow bacteria to break them down. Also cut back on items high in sugar and starch, which helps limit the risk of cavities and gum issues. Drink more water too, and cut back on sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices. Remember, if you do encounter an orthodontic emergency, such as broken braces, loose or lost bands and brackets, or cracked aligners, please let us know. Addressing this quickly helps you stay on schedule with your treatment. If you have any questions about daily care, or about orthodontic emergency care, then contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT ORAL HEALTH?
We can answer any questions you have about caring for your braces. We can also address your emergency needs as well, safeguarding your smile! To schedule a consultation or ask about treatment options or homecare, please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Haslet, Azle, and all surrounding communities.
