Here at Hutta & Price Orthodontics, we want to wish you a Happy New Year! 2020 is a blank slate, a fresh start, and the perfect time to step up your game when it comes to your oral health! Taking care of your teeth should always be a priority, but it’s especially important when you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment.  

If you found yourself falling behind on your oral hygiene or orthodontic routine last year, Dr. Hutta and Dr. Price have some suggestions for your New Year’s resolutions:

1. BRUSH AFTER EVERY MEAL.

When you have braces, it’s so important that you’re keeping your teeth clean. Food debris is easily caught in the wires and brackets of your braces, and this can cause plaque to develop on the teeth. Over time, plaque can cause you to develop cavities and discolor your smile. You certainly don’t want to find out that your teeth have been discolored on the day you get your braces removed. So, brush every time you complete a meal—it will keep your breath fresh and your braces pristine!

2.  REMEMBER TO DRINK WATER.

In addition to being a hydrating, sugar-free beverage, water helps keep your braces clean and your mouth (and body) healthy. If you aren’t in the habit of carrying around a water bottle, make 2020 the year of healthier habits!  

3. FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FROM YOUR ORTHODONTIST.

If our orthodontists ask you to wear headgear, put in rubber bands, wear your Invisalign^® trays, or to turn your palate expander—listen! If you want to complete your orthodontic treatment in a timely fashion, it is vital that you follow any instructions from your orthodontist. If you follow directions, 2020 might even be the year you get your braces off! 

4.  WEAR A MOUTHGUARD.

If you play any sports, you should be wearing a mouthguard any time you practice or play. When you have braces, your mouth is at an increased risk of injury, as the sharp edges of your braces can cut your inner mouth, cheeks, lips, and tongue upon impact. A mouthguard is a simple fix that can save you from a world of hurt. In fact, the American Dental Association reports that mouthguards prevent an estimated 200,000 injuries each year. Don’t get benched because of a painful mouth injury this year. Instead, invest in a mouthguard!

5. WEAR YOUR RETAINER.

If you’ve already had your braces removed, make sure you keep wearing your retainer this new year. Your teeth have a memory, and if you neglect to wear your retainer on a nightly basis, your teeth will shift. Don’t regress in 2020—make this a year of progress!

Commit to these resolutions to keep your teeth and orthodontic appliances happy and healthy! For more information about caring for your oral health and safety while wearing braces, contact our office.