Learn how to keep your braces clean when you don’t have access to a toothbrush. While carrying a travel toothbrush and toothpaste is ideal, it’s possible to manage without them. One effective method is to swish water around your mouth after eating to dislodge food particles from your braces.

Certain foods can dislodge brackets or break wires. Avoid:
• Popcorn, corn chips, pretzels, and potato chips
• Sticky candies like caramels
• Raw carrots and fibrous fruits or vegetables
• Nuts such as cashews or pecans
• Large seeds like sunflower seeds
• Hard breads such as bagels
Additionally, avoid chewing on pencils or ice cubes to prevent damage to your braces.

Opt for softer foods to prevent damage:
• Soft raw fruits like blueberries and bananas
• Nutritious vegetables such as spinach and bell peppers
• Cooked vegetables like potatoes and zucchini
• Finely chopped fruits like pineapple and watermelon
• Small pieces of tender meats and steamed fish
• Soft breads and cooked grains
• Dairy products like yogurt and cheese cubes

Brushing: Brush your teeth after every meal to remove food debris. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head to reach all areas. Clean around brackets and wires carefully to avoid decay.
Flossing: Despite wires covering your teeth, flossing remains crucial. Use floss threaders to navigate around wires and remove debris.
Oral Irrigators: A water pick can help clean spaces between teeth and around braces with a pressurized stream of water. It’s a great supplementary tool, though it doesn’t replace flossing.

Daily brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining oral health with braces. If you need assistance or want to learn more about braces, reach out to Orland Park Orthodontics. Braces are a valuable investment in your smile, and we’re here to help!