When you have braces, it is natural to be excited about the prospect of seeing your beautiful new smile. However, if you want to see truly impressive results, you must take special care of your oral hygiene at all times. This can be a little tricky when you have braces, but it will be worth it in the end. To achieve the perfect smile, just follow these helpful tips:

1. Brush after every meal

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you brush your teeth after each and every meal, including snacks, to maintain your pearly whites. This becomes even more important when you wear braces. It is easy for food particles to get stuck in between the wiring, leading to a build-up of plaque and bacteria. As such, if you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, you should take the time to brush regularly.

2. Flossing

When you have braces, you should try to floss your teeth at least twice a day. The reason is, once again, to remove food particles that may be caught up in your braces. The flossing technique remains almost the same as normal when you have braces, with one crucial difference: You will need to clean between the archwires of the braces as well as the gaps between your teeth.

3. Use a soft toothbrush

Gentle cleaning is the name of the game when you have braces. A soft toothbrush is more effective at whisking away itsy bitsy pieces of food from the braces. Most dentists recommend using an interdental brush for a more thorough cleaning. With its micro bristles and small, flexible head, the interdental is adept at navigating the nooks and crannies that a regular brush may find difficult to reach.

4. Apply fluoride gel

Fluoride is the ultimate protector of your teeth. It is a one-man army against the many villains that cause cavities and tooth decay. Take a look at the toothpaste you use, and you will almost certainly see fluoride in the ingredients list. This is exactly why the experts recommend that you apply it in its most potent form when you wear braces. Place a strip of the gel on your toothbrush, apply it around your teeth for a minute, then spit out. Do not consume food or drink for about half an hour after you apply the gel.

In Closing

Braces are the perfect way to beautify your smile. By following the oral hygiene tips outlined here, you can ensure that your teeth and gums remain beautiful for many years to come.

Image credit: MarianVejcik / iStock / Getty Images Plus