Wearing braces is an exciting step to gaining a stellar smile and a healthier mouth, but there’s more to keeping your teeth in prime condition than simply wearing your orthodontic appliances. Making a few simple life changes will ensure that your time in braces is as smooth, comfortable, and effective as possible. Check out these 5 bad habits you should break right away if you are sporting braces.

Not Brushing & Flossing Diligently

Thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is more important than ever when you have braces. Food and bacteria can easily hide in the extra crevices of your mouth putting you at risk of tooth decay, or white spot lesions after your braces have been removed. To keep your oral health routine as easy as possible, try using an electric toothbrush and water pik.

Eating Foods that are on the No-Eats List

Giving up particularly hard, chewy, or sticky foods may not be easy, but it will certainly be worth it if it helps your time in braces come to an end sooner! It’s also important to never bite foods with your front teeth, especially raw vegetables, apples, and bagels.

Chewing on Non-edible Items

If you’re prone to crunching on ice, biting your finger nails, or chewing on the end of your pencil while you write, now is the time to stop! You may not think much of these seemingly harmless habits, but they can very easily cause you an unexpected orthodonticemergency, such as a broken bracket or wire.

Not Wearing a Mouthguard

If you have braces and play a contact sport, wearing a mouthguard is a must! Not only will it protect your orthodontic appliances, it will also ensure that your cheeks and gums are spared should you get hit in the mouth.

Using Your Teeth to Open Packages

When you encounter a pesky package that won’t open with ease, fight the urge to use your teeth and find some scissors. Like chewing on non-edible items, putting pressure on your braces by biting down on hard items is never a wise idea.

To make your experience in braces as pleasant as possible, the friendly team at Beach Braces is here to help every step of the way. Book your appointment today at our convenient office location in the Beaches area of Toronto!

– Your Beach Braces Team