People seek orthodontic treatment to correct a variety of smile issues, including crowding, misalignment, underbites, overbites, and more. In order to ensure your smile stays healthy and your braces remain intact, you need to follow a few simple steps. In today’s blog, your Columbia dentist, Dr. David Foster, answers frequently asked questions about maintaining good dental health while wearing orthodontics.
Orthodontic Care Questions
Question: Do I need to alter my diet while wearing braces?
Answer: Yes. Patients should avoid hard or sticky foods, such as chewing on ice or taffy. Hard foods can damage your braces and sticky foods can become difficult to remove. Since wearing braces can make routine dental maintenance more difficult, patients should try to avoid foods and drinks high in sugars and other starches. These items, including candy and soda, increase the risk of tooth decay and dental discoloration.
Question: Should I continue brushing and flossing normally?
Answer: Absolutely. Always brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss once. Try rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, as well. These measures help cleanse your mouth of stray food particles and harmful bacteria, aiding in the prevention of cavities and teeth stains.
Question: Do I continue to attend regular checkups?
Answer: Yes. According to the American Dental Association, adults and children over the age of three should undergo a routine checkup once every six months. These visits allow your Columbia TN general dentist to assess the state of your dental health and watch for warning signs of burgeoning dental problems. Some patients may need to see Dr. Foster more frequently for adjustments to their orthodontics.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Columbia TN General Dentist
Do you have any more questions about maintaining your braces? Then talk to your Columbia TN general dentist today. Dr. Foster is happy to address any questions or concerns you may have. Dr. Foster offers the latest in general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment our 38401 dentist office by calling (931) 388-3384. We welcome patients from Columbia, Spring Hill, Mt. Pleasant, Lewisburg, Lewisburg, Hohenwald, Centerville and surrounding communities.