Care of Appliances

An important measure in orthodontic treatment is to take proper care of dental braces. Your orthodontist can recommend certain procedures for orthodontic appliance care.

Fixed and removable orthodontic appliances such as braces, wires, springs, rubber bands etc. can trap food and plaque, having permanent effects on tooth health and appearance if not brushed away properly. Specialized brush tips and braces toothbrushes are available to help a patient reach in between braces and under wires. Floss-threaders aid in passing floss under archwires and oral irrigators help to dislodge food from around the teeth. Most orthodontists advise brushing teeth after meals with fluoride toothpaste. Orthodontists may also prescribe or recommend a fluoride mouthwash for rinsing around braces.

Plaque must be removed from around the gums and teeth as bacteria found in plaque can cause inflamed gum tissue (gingivitis), scarring of the tooth enamel (decalcification) or, in rare cases, tooth decay due to untreated periodontal (gum) disease.

Patients with orthodontic appliances such as metal braces and orthodontic retainers should avoid sticky foods such as gum and caramels and hard food such as popcorn kernels and peanuts that may dislodge brackets or wires.