Proper care for dental appliances
Dental appliances are incredible tools for correcting misaligned teeth or jaws, which can improve oral health. But without proper care, those same tools can become breeding grounds for plaque and lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or permanent staining. That’s why keeping dental appliances clean and protecting them from damage is so important.
Removable vs. fixed dental appliances
Dental appliances generally fall into two straightforward categories: removable and fixed. Which type your dentist recommends depends on your individual need.
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Removable appliances, such as retainers and clear aligners like Invisalign, are taken out by the patient for cleaning and during meals.
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Fixed appliances, such as braces, are attached directly to the teeth and can only be removed by a dentist or orthodontist. These can be harder to clean, as food can collect around the brackets and under the wires.
Keep your smile squeaky clean
Whether your dental appliance is fixed or removable, cleaning it helps prevent plaque buildup and reduces your risk for cavities and gum disease. A clean appliance will also be more effective and comfortable.
Remove debris from removable dental gear
It’s important to follow your dentist or orthodontist’s specific instructions for keeping your dental appliance, retainer, or aligner clean. But in general, you’ll want to:
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Take care during meals: Take removable appliances out before you eat and brush your teeth after. If brushing is not possible, rinse your mouth with water.
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Brush and floss daily: Keep up your daily oral health routine.
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Use a disinfectant soak once per day: Use a denture cleaner or a mild antibacterial solution as directed by your dentist. Do not use alcohol, mouthwashes that contain alcohol, or bleach.
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Store it properly: When not in use, keep the appliance in its protective case to prevent damage.
Keep fixed dental appliances fresh
Maintaining braces takes a bit of careful cleaning. You should:
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Brush carefully around brackets and wires: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be careful not to leave food stuck in the wires.
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Floss daily: A floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser can help you clean between braces.
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Use mouthwash: A non-alcohol antibacterial mouth rinse can help kill bacteria and freshen breath. Ask your dentist what kind of mouthwash is safe to use.
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Watch what you eat: Certain foods can cause fixed appliances like braces to bend or break, which can create discomfort or even delay your treatment progress. Foods to avoid include:
- Hard items such as nuts, hard candy, and ice can crack or loosen braces.
- Sticky treats such as gum, caramel, and chewy candy can stick to wires and brackets.
- Crunchy snacks such as popcorn or chips can easily lodge in braces, leading to irritation.
Don’t forget about regular dental visits
Whether you have a dental appliance or not, remember to schedule preventive checkups so your dentist and orthodontist can help keep your smile healthy!