Having a Hard Time Maintaining Oral Hygiene in Plano?

oral hygiene in plano

Today’s post is for patients having a hard time maintaining their oral hygiene in Plano due to their braces. There is no doubt about it – it is harder to keep your teeth clean if you wear braces. It’s unfortunate when brace wearers develop tooth decay and weaken their teeth while simultaneously trying to improve their smile with braces. A classic example of “one step forward and two steps back.”

The brackets and wires on traditional metal braces create hard to reach places where detrimental bacteria can thrive. If those with braces don’t pay continual and careful attention to oral hygiene, their teeth can be permanently damaged. Teeth are not the only thing at risk here, Plano orthodontic patients can also develop gum disease which can progress quickly into periodontitis and eventual bone recession and tooth loss. The bottom line is that orthodontic patients need to be vigilant about a healthy diet and effective oral hygiene in Plano.

Most The Plano Dentist brace wearers know that they should avoid sticky, sugary foods that stick to their braces, but some don’t realize that any carbohydrate-based food turns into sugar. Thus, a cracker can be just as bad for your teeth as a Tootsie Roll if the particles are not removed. Brace wearers should also watch their intake of highly-acidic foods and beverages. Though some acidic foods are very healthy – think tomatoes, oranges, raspberries – it is wise to substitute less acidic foods that contain similar nutrients. There are few beverages as harmful as soda and sports drinks, both of which have the detrimental duo of acid and sugar.

The Plano Dentist provides quality general and cosmetic dentistry including restorative dentistry, general dentistry, and dental implants. Our courteous team is devoted to oral hygiene in Plano and dazzling smiles. If you are new to the Dallas area, we invite you to call us at 469-998-0235 to schedule an exam and cleaning. Our team looks forward to meeting you.

Contact The Plano Dentist:

469-998-0235

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3115 W Parker Rd Ste C538
Plano, Texas
75023