How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or a retainer?
- elisetomalty
- Mar 12
- 1 min read
Updated: May 13
ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
If you take out your retainer to eat, brush your teeth, and floss, then remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.
Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also use retainer cleaner twice a week. Do not use hot, boiling water or the dishwasher.
During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities).
Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes) or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc).
Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
