Tips For Maintaining Orthodontic Health

Seeing an orthodontist can allow you to get the specialized treatment that you need to maintain your oral health. If you have more serious issues such as jaw pain, alignment, spacing or bite problems, orthodontists can help you get the much needed care that will allow you to get the teeth and smile you have always wanted. In addition to regular cleanings and appointments with your orthodontist, there are important tips that you should follow on a regular basis so that your teeth will always be in top condition.

Do I need to brush and floss daily? 

As an experienced Laguna Niguel, CA orthodontist can tell you more about, regular and thorough brushing and proper flossing are one of the most important things that you can do to ensure maintenance of dental health. It is not enough to just brush every day because you should always practice cleaning your teeth according to your orthodontic treatments. If you are wearing braces for instance, you should be brushing and flossing in a way that accommodates your braces.

Should I avoid certain foods?

Being mindful of the things you eat can go a long way in preventing tooth decay and other dental issues. Try to avoid eating too much sugary or acidic foods. If you are eating fruit or drinking beverages with high acidity, use a straw to limit contact with your teeth. Pay attention to the textures of foods that you are eating. Avoid anything that is too hard, too sticky or requires a lot of chewing. It is helpful to prepare food in a way that does not require too much chewing, which can lead to a sore jaw.

How can chewing habits affect orthodontic health? 

Chewing too forcefully can contribute to jaw pain and dysfunction. When you have been treated for bite or jaw issues, it is critical that you be mindful of how you chew your food. Do not rush whenever you are eating food. Always chew slowly and mindful to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or biting on braces or your gums.

How should I take care of my orthodontic devices? 

If you wear braces, aligners or other devices to correct orthodontic issues, you must make sure that you are taking good care of them. Regularly clean them and have them reviewed by an orthodontist like one at John Redmond Orthodontics during your appointments. If you notice any issues such as cracked or bent wires, you can inform an experienced orthodontist so that they can fix your device.

When should I see an orthodontist? 

If you see any symptoms of abnormalities such as tooth growing the wrong direction, spacing issues, or throbbing tooth pain, you may want to see an orthodontist right away. They will be able to assess your condition and see exactly what is going on. Once they find the cause they can review different treatment options so that you can get relief from your symptoms and get the urgent treatment that you need for your teeth. If you would like to know more about how you can get orthodontic care, see a skilled orthodontic specialist in your area.