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Our mouths contain millions of bacteria which stick to our teeth to form plaque.
Plaque causes tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease.
Removable braces are removed for brushing and should be cleaned with a normal toothbrush and toothpaste - taking care not to bend any of the wires.
When a fixed brace has been fitted you will need to buy a 'care pack' from our receptionist. This contains special toothbrushes, disclosing tablets, fluoride mouthrinse and soft wax to mould over your brace if it is rubbing.
Diet
It is important to exercise care when eating all foods and in particular you must avoid hard and sticky foods which can damage your brace, or break it completely. Hard fruits, raw vegetables, and crusty bread must be cut into small pieces.
Foods containing sugar react with plaque to form acid. Fizzy drinks and fruit juices also contain acid. This dissolves enamel causing decalcification and tooth decay.
Your Dentist
If you have a brace it is very important to keep your regular six-monthly appointments with your general dentist. This will guarantee that your teeth and gums are properly cared for.
Take off any elastic bands that you may be wearing with your fixed brace.
Power toothbrushes can remove more plaque than ordinary manual toothbrushes. Some have brush heads specifically made for use with braces.
Interdental brushes have very small heads with fine bristles, perfect for cleaning under wires where the brackets are stuck on to your teeth.
Irrigation devices use a pressurized stream of water to clean around braces and along the gumline. These devices are a supplement to brushing - not a replacement!
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