Tips for Taking Care of Metal Orthodontic Braces

If your child is currently undergoing orthodontic treatment through traditional metal braces, there are a few tips and restrictions you should be aware of. Properly taking care of traditional metal braces can ensure that your child has a straight, healthy, and beautiful smile once his or her orthodontic treatment is over. 

Tips on Caring for Traditional Metal Braces 

If you’re not properly caring for your child’s braces, it could result in damage to the braces or your child’s teeth. Below are a few tips on caring for traditional metal braces: 

• Use the right dental hygiene products – You will be provided with information about the best kind of floss, toothpaste, and mouthwash to use while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Make sure you follow these instructions and avoid products with abrasives, harsh materials or dyes that can damage your child’s braces. 
• Brush and floss every day – Make sure your child brushes after every meal to remove food debris from between wires and brackets. If he or she is unable to brush after a meal, try to at least rinse with water. Second, it’s important to floss at least once a day while wearing braces. We know that the wires make it difficult and it may include a few more steps, but it’s worth it to have a healthy, beautiful smile! 
• Avoid damaging foods – After your child’s braces are placed, you’ll receive a list of foods to avoid eating while wearing braces. These foods include: 
  • Tough meat
  • Whole raw fruit 
  • Popcorn 
  • Sticky candies 
  • Nuts 
• Visit the dentist during orthodontic treatment – Lastly, your child should still be visiting the dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and an exam even during orthodontic treatment. This allows us to catch any potential problems early on and will help make sure your child’s treatment is completed on time.

Here at Firestone Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we want to make sure that your child has a positive experience with orthodontic treatment. For more tips on caring for metal braces or to make an appointment for your children to receive a dental cleaning and a checkup, please contact Firestone Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics covering the Firestone, Fort Lupton & Frederick, Colorado areas.