Wearing braces is an amazing way to get the smile you’ve always wanted. But your work doesn’t stop after leaving the orthodontist’s chair. To get the best results, you need to look after your braces in between appointments consistently.
Drs. Bruce and Gabriel Ollins believe your efforts at home play a huge role in your orthodontic success. Whether you’re brand new to Ollins Orthodontics in Nutley, NJ, or just need a quick refresher, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Why Looking After Your Braces Counts
Braces, especially our advanced Pitts 21 self-ligating braces, are precision tools designed to move your teeth gently and efficiently. But poor habits or lack of hygiene can slow your progress, cause damage, or even lead to permanent tooth issues. Here’s why you should make the effort:
- Keeps treatment on schedule
- Prevents cavities, gum disease, and white spots
- Avoids costly repairs
- Protects your overall oral health
When you look after your braces with daily care, you invest in a smile that will last a lifetime. Using the right tools can also go a long way, like:
- Interproximal Brushes: Great for cleaning around brackets
- Water Flossers: Powerful and effective for hard-to-reach areas
- Fluoride Rinses: Help strengthen enamel
- Orthodontic Wax: Soothes irritation from brackets and wires
Daily Routine: The Big Four
Practice truly makes perfect when it comes to braces maintenance. You’ll learn for yourself what works best for you, but let these four guidelines shape your routine:
1. Brush After Every Meal
- Use a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste
- Brush around each bracket and under the wires
- Brush your tongue and gumline gently
2. Floss At Least Once a Day
- Use a floss threader, orthodontic floss, or waterpick
- Be gentle but thorough under each wire to make sure no food is trapped
3. Rinse Well
- Use water or fluoride mouthwash
- Swish thoroughly to remove any lingering particles
4. Inspect Your Braces
- Check in the mirror for loose brackets or food debris
- Call our office if you notice anything out of place
Helping Kids Look After Their Braces
Helping your child look after their braces may seem like a full-time job, but your support makes all the difference. A strong partnership between you, your child, and our Nutley orthodontic team leads to better outcomes. Here’s how you can help:
Establish a Routine
- Create a morning and bedtime oral care checklist that they can interact with
- Keep travel toothbrushes handy for school or outings
Make It Fun
- Let your child choose their toothbrush or flavored toothpaste
- Use reward charts or apps to encourage daily brushing and flossing
Watch for Issues
- Check their braces for broken brackets, stray wires, or any other abnormalities
- Monitor for signs of excessive soreness or swollen, bleeding gums
Provide Braces-Friendly Snacks
- Stock up on soft fruits, string cheese, and smoothie pouches
- Pack lunches that won’t damage brackets or wires
- When dining out, be mindful of menu picks
At Ollins Orthodontics, Drs. Bruce and Gabriel Ollins are always available to answer your questions. Whether your child is in the beginning stages or midway through treatment, we’re your partners in creating a routine that sticks.
Bonus Tips: Keeping Your Smile On Track
Looking after your braces is about building good habits that support your entire orthodontic experience. These bonus tips can help you keep your treatment on schedule and your smile healthy:
- Stay consistent with appointments:Don’t skip checkups or follow-up visits to Ollins Orthodontics. Regular adjustments keep your treatment on track.
- Carry a braces care kit: Pack a small pouch with a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss threader, orthodontic wax, and a mirror. You’ll be ready to clean up anytime, anywhere.
- Wear rubber bands as directed: If your treatment includes rubber bands, wear them exactly how and when prescribed. Skipping them slows your progress.
- Avoid nail biting and chewing on pens: These habits can damage your braces and delay your results.
Sticking to these daily habits can make a big difference in your results—and help you cross the finish line successfully when the time comes!
Practice and Patience Win the Day
Just like with any other new experience, it’s unlikely everyone will catch on right away to caring for their braces. The reality is, it can take some trial and error and creativity to establish maintenance habits that accommodate your lifestyle.
By keeping our team in the loop throughout this process, you can reaffirm these habits like you’re supposed to! Never be afraid to ask us questions—it’s what we’re here for. If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment here in Nutley, we’d love to welcome you in for a free exam to begin discussing treatment options. Come visit us soon!
