According to the American Association of Orthodontists, there was a 16% increase in the number of American and Canadian adults seeking orthodontic treatment between 2012 and 2014. It resulted in a record high of 1,460,000 cases.
More adults are learning the benefits that a good smile can bring to their life. An attractive dental structure will improve an individual’s professional and social experience.
On average, a person in braces will need to wear them for about two years. For a child, this may not be an issue. But for an adult, this is an awfully long time to hold business meetings, go on dates, and attend parties with metal braces showing.
Clear braces such as Invisalign aligners provide a cosmetic alternative to metal braces. They will perfect your teeth without making it evident that you are an adult in braces.
How to Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene when Wearing Braces
Maintaining proper oral hygiene becomes harder when you are in braces. The food particles will stick between the teeth and behind the braces. The sugars and starch will eventually release corrosive acid and cause tooth decay.
Clear braces come in transparent ceramic or plastic-like material. It blends easily with the natural color of your teeth, which shows through the clear material.
If not properly maintained, the ceramic or elastic ties holding that hold the wire to the braces will stain over time. Stains will make the braces noticeable.
To keep your teeth clean and avoid your braces from staining, here is what you can do.
• Brush and Floss Regularly
A basic rule of proper oral hygiene is brushing and flossing after every meal. It is more important when you are wearing clear braces. Properly removing the food particles decreases the chances that the food will stain your braces. An electric toothbrush would be a good investment. Electric toothbrushes are designed to reach and clean every hidden corner of your teeth and braces. They will eliminate plague and promote oral health.
• Rinse Your Mouth with a Mouthwash
Once you properly clean and floss your teeth, orthodontic specialists advise that you should rinse with a mouthwash. A mouthwash will prevent the growth of bacteria and kill germs that can cause severe tooth decay. It will also prevent gum disease. When you are not in a position to brush your teeth after a meal, rinsing with the mouthwash will prevent stains. Ask an orthodontist Culver City, which mouthwash is best for you.
• Watch What Goes to Your Mouth
In addition to brushing and flossing about four or five times a day, you need to watch what comes into contact with your teeth. Limit staining foods and drinks, such as curry, yellow spices, colored soft drinks, and caffeine. Anything with artificial coloring should be off your plate. Avoid cigarettes, alcohol, and any tobacco products. And don’t forget to limit sugary food such as cookies and sweets.
• Visit the Orthodontic Specialist Regularly
You need to visit your orthodontist Culver City regularly. They will not just confirm that the clear braces are working as they should, but check if there are any signs of staining. The specialist will clean the stains, or carry out a replacement. They will give you advice on proper maintenance of the clear braces, and the best products you can use. Have the orthodontist clean your teeth and braces at least twice a year.
• Avoid Whitening Toothpaste
Most people will use whitening toothpaste to make their smile more radiant. But when wearing braces, this is not an option. Using the toothpaste will only whiten the exposed part of the teeth, leaving the area under the braces untouched. It will make the braces visible, which beats the reason for investing in clear braces.
Clear braces are an excellent alternative to metal braces, especially for adults. But to enjoy their full benefits, you need to keep them from staining and protect your teeth from decay. Avoid artificially colored foods and drinks, brush and floss regularly, and always have a mouthwash at hand. Visit an orthodontic specialist regularly and only use the products they recommend on your teeth.