If you’re wearing braces, then you’ve already taken your first steps to achieving the perfect smile. But, as always, it’s important to keep your teeth–and braces–clean during this time. After all, clean teeth and braces will help keep you and your teeth healthy and strong. We know it can take a bit more effort at home, and thee same is doubly true when it comes to caring for your braces at school.
Sure, there’s a lot going on at school, but choosing not to clean your teeth and braces after eating and drinking could leave your mouth susceptible to decay, gum disease, and may even cause bad breath. Fortunately, with the right tools and supplies, you can easily clean your braces at school.
Why Is It Important to Keep My Braces Clean?
When you don’t keep your braces clean, bacteria can begin to grow, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. The last thing you want is to finally get your braces off only to find out that you’ve got unhealthy gums and a mouth full of decay.
Essentials for Keeping Your Braces Clean
Keeping your braces clean is an essential part of maintaining proper oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment. Although you probably already know to avoid sugary foods and drinks, you may not realize how important it is to keep a supply kit designated for the care and maintenance of your teeth, even when you’re at school. Here is a list of must-have items you should keep with you at all times.
Toothbrush — Brush your teeth immediately after eating.
Toothpaste — Keep a travel size tube with you for easy storage and access no matter where you are.
Dental floss — Use dental floss when you brush, so you can be sure to remove all particles of food and debris that may be hiding in and around your braces.
Dental wax — Orthodontic wires can sometimes poke your lips or cheeks as your teeth begin to shift. But, if you have dental wax, you can easily cover the wire until your next appointment. You may also have a circumstance in which one or more brackets becomes loose. One way to secure the bracket in place until you can get in to see your dentist is by using wax to temporarily adhere the bracket to the tooth.
Tissues — Especially if you need to use wax, a tissue in hand can help you dry the tooth so the wax will adhere securely. You may also need to wipe your mouth after brushing and flossing.
Water — You may not have access to water when you need it. So, be sure to carry a water bottle with you so you can rinse your mouth frequently.
More Tips for Keeping Your Braces Clean at School
Although your typical school-day likely consists of a busy schedule of classes and extracurricular activities, there are many ways in which you can take care of your braces regardless of the day’s activities. Here are a few tips that can help you keep your braces clean during school.
- Let your teachers know that you need to clean your teeth immediately after eating or drinking.
- If necessary, ask your parents to talk to the school about any special accommodations you may need.
- Allow yourself time after meals to go to the bathroom to brush and floss.
- Avoid sugary drinks during extracurricular activities.
- Stop to brush and floss your teeth promptly after eating or drinking.
By wearing braces, you’ve committed to your goal of getting beautiful, straight teeth. But remember, without the proper care of your braces, you could end up with cavities, or even gum disease. Fortunately, when you take the time to brush and floss your teeth, avoid sugary foods and beverages, and drink lots of water throughout the day, you can keep your teeth healthy and clean throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Set up an appointment today with Wake Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry to get started on your smile transformation!