With orthodontic braces, you can enhance your self-esteem by improving your smile. A straighter smile is a happier smile and the first step to a more effective self-image. Straighter teeth are also easier to clean and care for, as plaque has fewer voids to hide in when brushing and flossing.

Orthodontic braces can help repair your alignment and lower your risks for dental damage due to bruxism and temporomandibular disorders. Teeth with severe malocclusions are also likely to suffer from chips and cracks due to the grinding and wear they receive when brushing against each another.

If you would like to schedule an orthodontic treatment session, simply call our orthodontic office in El Paso, Texas, at our number 915-592-5853. Dr. Jaime Rivera and our entire team await. The time is now to make the change you wish to see in your oral health.

The post The Finer Details of Orthodontic Braces first appeared on Rivera Orthodontics.

Brushing and Flossing While Wearing Braces
Braces and other orthodontic appliances can attract plaque and food, which can stain the teeth if it is not removed. Our orthodontist may recommend brushing your teeth after every meal or snack, to carefully remove any food or plaque that is stuck in your braces. Brush using a soft toothbrush. To clean each tooth, brush down from the top and up from the bottom. Next, use a proxabrush, which is also called a Christmas tree brush, to clean between your braces. Between each set of brackets, insert the brush from the top to the bottom and then from the bottom to the top, using several strokes in each direction. There is also a special procedure for flossing with braces. Insert the short end of the floss between the main arch wire and the part of the tooth closest to the gums. Use a gentle sawing motion to work the floss between the teeth. Be very careful around the arch wire.

Avoid These Foods While Wearing Braces
For those wearing braces, most foods can still be eaten as long as they are cut into small pieces that can be easily chewed. However, some foods can damage braces and should be avoided, including:

– Hard foods that are hard to bite (i.e. apples and bagels)
– Chewy foods (i.e. taffy and caramel)
– Corn on the cob
– Popcorn, nuts, carrots, and hard pretzels

Do not chew ice or bubble gum with braces.

Feel free to contact Rivera Orthodontics today to learn more and to schedule a consultation.

The post How to Brush and Floss During Orthodontic Treatment first appeared on Rivera Orthodontics.