Having braces as a teen can be a challenging experience. It can be uncomfortable, and it can be hard to adjust to the changes in your lifestyle. But with the right tips and advice, you can make the most of your braces and have a positive experience. This article will guide how to live with braces as a teen, including dental hygiene, diet, and lifestyle changes.

Dental Hygiene

When you have braces, taking extra care of your teeth and gums is essential. Here are some tips for maintaining good dental hygiene with braces:

• Brush and Floss

Brushing and flossing your teeth is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush your teeth for at least two minutes, paying extra attention to the areas around the brackets and wires. Flossing is also crucial for removing food particles and plaque between your teeth.

• Use a Water Flosser

A water flosser is an excellent tool for cleaning around the brackets and wires of your braces. It uses a stream of water to remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas.

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly

It is suggested to visit your dentist regularly when you have braces. Your dentist can check for any problems with your teeth and gums and ensure your braces are working correctly.

Diet 

When you have braces, paying attention to your diet is essential. Following are some tips for eating with braces: 

• Avoid Hard and Chewy Foods 

It is essential to avoid hard and chewy foods when you have braces. These foods can damage the brackets and wires of your braces and cause discomfort. 

• Cut Your Food into Smaller Pieces 

Cutting your food into smaller pieces can make it easier to eat with braces. This will also help to reduce the risk of damaging your braces. 

• Avoid Sugary Foods 

Sugary foods can cause cavities and other dental problems. It is best to avoid sugary foods when you have braces.

Lifestyle Changes 

Having braces can require some lifestyle changes. Following are some tips for making the most of your braces:

• Wear a Mouthguard 

Wearing a mouthguard when playing sports / engaging in other activities can help to protect your braces from damage. 

• Avoid Chewing Hard Food Items 

Chewing non-food items such as pencils or pens can damage your braces. It is best to avoid this habit when you have braces. 

• Wear Your Retainer 

Wearing your retainer as suggested by your orthodontist can help to keep your teeth in their new position.

Having braces as a teen can be a challenging experience. But with the right tips and advice, you can make the most of your braces and have a positive experience. This article has provided information on how to live with braces as a teen, including dental hygiene, diet, and lifestyle changes.

FAQs 

Q: How often can I brush my teeth with braces? 

A: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day when you have braces is essential. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes, paying extra attention to the areas around the brackets and wires.

Q: Can I eat sugary foods with braces? 

A: It is best to avoid sugary foods when you have braces. Sugary foods can cause cavities and other dental problems.

Q: How often should I visit the dentist when I have braces? 

A: You must visit your dentist regularly when you have braces. Your dentist can check for any problems with your teeth and gums and ensure your braces are working correctly.