Flossing with Braces: Tips and Tricks

Learn how to floss correctly when wearing braces

During orthodontic treatment, maintaining proper oral health habits like brushing and flossing is essential. After all, if you’re investing so much in a healthy smile, you’ll want to make sure you take good care of it! While most people know to regularly brush their teeth, many put off flossing until right before an orthodontic or dental appointment. Unfortunately, failing to floss can result in a dangerous buildup of plaque, which could cause a cavity.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we aim to equip our patients with dental hygiene knowledge so they can take better care of their teeth. If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment and you’re not sure how to floss your teeth when you have braces, we can help! Keep reading to learn more.

The Importance of Flossing with Braces

The primary aim of flossing is to remove plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—from the areas between your teeth that aren’t reached by brushing alone. This task becomes even more essential when you have braces, as brackets and wires can obstruct easy access to these regions, increasing the chances of significant plaque buildup and potential tooth decay. Effective flossing is not just about maintaining aesthetics; it involves preventing long-term oral health complications.

Utilize a Water Flosser

A water flosser is a helpful tool for getting those hard-to-reach areas. In fact, according to a study, the Waterpik™ flosser in particular was found to be three times as effective as string floss for orthodontic patients! Your water flosser should come with instructions, but here are a few simple things to remember:

• Fill the water reservoir
• Insert the tip into the handle
• Change to your desired pressure
• Place the tip of the flosser in your mouth
• Turn on the flosser and aim it at the gum line. Then work your way around the tooth, being sure to tend to the brackets and the areas between teeth

Floss By Hand

If you’re used to flossing by hand or a water flosser is cost prohibitive, flossing manually is always an option! A floss threader is affordable and can assist you with flossing with braces. Use the floss threader to help you get the floss behind each wire. Once it’s there, wrap the end of the floss around one finger on each hand. Then, simply floss as you always have; use a “C” motion to get between the teeth and up by the gums to remove food particles.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Flossing with braces may be difficult initially, but several solutions can ease the learning curve:

• Patience is Key: It might take longer to floss when you have braces. Devote this extra time to encourage thorough cleaning as hasty techniques may damage the wires or irritate your gums.
• Gentle Method: Always handle your floss with care to avoid snapping it into your gums. Such rigorousness can lead to discomfort or tears around your braces.
• Consistency and Routine: Incorporate flossing into your regular oral hygiene routine. Aim to floss daily, ideally at night, to remove any remaining particles accumulated during the day.

Get the Healthy Smile of Your Dreams!

The team at Adirondack Orthodontics is standing by to give you your ideal smile. But we can’t do that without your help. Make sure you floss each day, in addition to brushing your teeth, to keep your teeth healthy and plaque-free. If you have any further questions about how to floss, reach out to us. We’d be happy to help!

For more dental hygiene advice, review our guide on how to brush your teeth with braces.

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Orthodontics and Your Diet: What to Eat (and Avoid) for Healthy Teeth

Tips to nourish your smile

The food you eat can have an enormous impact on your teeth, even if you brush and floss regularly. Everyone should be cautious about what they eat because we all deserve healthy teeth and gums, but anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment needs to be even more careful. After all, when you’re investing time and money into braces or Invisalign, you’ll want to take the best possible care of your teeth along the way.

Keeping track of all the rules for eating well while you have braces or Invisalign can be confusing, but don’t worry. We’re here to help! If you are wondering about foods you can’t eat with braces or Invisalign, see below for a brief and handy guide. Learn what you should eat (and what you should avoid) while undergoing orthodontic treatment!

Your Diet & Braces

When you get braces, the process involves brackets being placed on your teeth and connected with wires. What you eat when you have braces can have a massive impact on your treatment. Below, we’ve outlined some foods OK with braces and some stuff you can’t eat with braces.

Foods OK to Eat with Braces:

• Soft Fruits and Vegetables: Opt for soft fruits like bananas, berries, and melons, as well as cooked vegetables such as steamed carrots, squash, and spinach. These options are gentle on your braces and provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall oral health.
• Dairy Products: Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk are excellent choices for individuals with braces. Not only are they soft and easy to consume, but they also contain calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen tooth enamel and promote remineralization.
• Lean Proteins: Incorporate lean protein sources like fish, chicken, tofu, and legumes into your diet. These foods are rich in nutrients essential for tissue repair and muscle maintenance, supporting the overall health of your gums and oral tissues.
• Soft Grains: Choose soft grains such as oatmeal, quinoa, and rice over crunchy or hard alternatives. These options are less likely to get lodged in your braces and are easier to chew, reducing the risk of damage to your orthodontic appliances.
• Smoothies and Soups: Smoothies made with soft fruits and vegetables, along with soups that are free of chunky ingredients, are convenient options that provide nourishment without posing a risk to your braces. Plus, they’re easy to customize according to your taste preferences and nutritional needs.

Foods to Avoid with Braces:

• Sticky and Chewy Foods: Steer clear of sticky candies, caramels, taffy, and chewing gum, as these can easily get stuck in your braces, leading to discomfort and potentially causing damage.
• Hard Foods: Avoid hard foods like nuts, popcorn, hard candies, and ice cubes, as they can exert excessive force on your braces, leading to brackets coming loose or wires bending.
• Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: While fruits and vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet, crunchy options like apples, carrots, and celery should be consumed with caution or prepared in a softer form to avoid damaging your braces.
• Tough Meats: Tough cuts of meat, such as steak and pork chops, can be challenging to chew and may require excessive force, increasing the risk of damage to your braces. Opt for tender cuts or choose alternative protein sources.
• Sugary and Acidic Foods: Minimize your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, such as soda, sports drinks, and citrus fruits, as they can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion, particularly during orthodontic treatment when oral hygiene may be more challenging to maintain.

Your Diet & Invisalign

Invisalign involves a series of clear, discreet aligners that slowly move your teeth into the desired positions. One of the benefits of Invisalign is that you don’t have to be quite so strict with your diet; you can remove your aligners while you eat and put them back in once you’re finished with your meal. However, some of the same rules apply for all orthodontic treatments.

Foods to Avoid During Invisalign Treatment:

• Sticky and Chewy Foods: Avoid sticky candies, caramels, and chewing gum.
• Sugary and Acidic Foods: Minimize your intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages to prevent tooth decay and enamel erosion.

Remember to remove your aligners before consuming anything other than water, and brush your teeth before putting them back in to maintain optimal oral hygiene. And don’t forget to clean your Invisalign trays at least once a day!

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we want to help you make the most of your orthodontic treatment by equipping you with the knowledge to take care of your teeth! If you have any questions about what you can and can’t eat, just ask.

Serving Albany, Clifton Park, East Greenbush, Glens Falls, Latham, and Schenectady, New York, schedule your free consultation today to discover which orthodontic treatment option is right for you.

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Brushing with Braces: The Best Tips for a Bright Smile!

Learn proper brushing techniques while wearing braces

November 1st was National Brush Day! The best way to celebrate all month long is to make sure you’re equipped with the right tools and techniques to properly brush your teeth. This is even more important if you have braces since you’ll need to take extra care when you brush and floss to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and your treatment stays on track.

See below to learn more about how to keep your teeth and gums clean during your orthodontic journey with these tips on brushing and flossing with braces. Download a PDF version of these tips.

1. Find a good toothbrush

The brush you use should be flexible so that you can reach every bit of your teeth and gums. You could even take your toothbrushing to the next level with an electric toothbrush!

2. Start brushing on the outside of your teeth

Work your way from one side to the other, using a circular motion to brush each tooth on the outside (i.e., the side you see). Carefully brush around the brackets and wires to ensure that no food particles get stuck.

3. Brush the inside of your teeth

Repeat your circular brushing, this time on the inside of your teeth. While you won’t have as many obstacles to brush around, it’s just as important to do a thorough job on this side of your teeth.

4. Work on the crowns of your teeth

Don’t forget to brush the chewing surface of each tooth! Brushing the crowns of your molars is especially important, as small pieces of food can end up on top of these teeth. Those particles can cause plaque and eventually cavities.

5. Brush your tongue and gums

Once you’re finished brushing your teeth, gently brush your gums and the top of your tongue.

6. Move on to flossing

Flossing with braces doesn’t have to be as tricky as it might seem. A floss threader can make flossing a breeze, but even without one, you can properly floss your teeth. If you have traditional floss, take enough of it out to wrap around each index finger. Use floss threaders or move the floss by hand under the wires to get between the teeth, and floss using a “C” motion. Floss between each tooth to get rid of any remaining food particles that are stuck between your teeth. 

Celebrate healthy teeth all year long

Prevent cavities and keep your teeth in great health by properly brushing your teeth twice a day (and when you have braces, brushing after meals as needed). And if you need any more information about how to properly brush or floss, don’t hesitate to contact one of our offices! We’d be happy to teach you the techniques you need to keep your teeth and gums in the best health throughout your treatment.

With convenient locations in Albany, Glens Falls, Clifton Park, Latham, East Greenbush, and Schenectady, Adirondack Orthodontics is your trusted orthodontic specialist in the Capital Region. Book your next appointment or free consultation online today to start your journey toward a healthy, beautiful smile.

Download a PDF version of these tips. 

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Know Your Orthodontic Options: Braces or Invisalign?

Review the difference between braces and Invisalign.

You’ll consider a variety of factors when deciding what orthodontic treatment best suits your needs, including your budget, lifestyle, and goals. No matter which treatment you select, you can trust that the team at Adirondack Orthodontics will guide you through it at one of our six convenient locations. We’re trusted throughout the Capital Region to provide top-notch braces and Invisalign to New Yorkers.

See the main differences between metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign below to start thinking about which option is right for you.

Braces: The Traditional Option

Patients and orthodontists have trusted braces for decades for a good reason: braces straighten teeth and give patients perfect smiles. At the start of the treatment, the orthodontist applies brackets to the teeth. Then, wires are placed to connect the brackets. During each appointment, these wires are tightened to slowly move the teeth into the desired positions.

An affordable choice, braces may work best with your budget. Another advantage of getting braces is that you don’t need to remember to take an aligner in and out; braces go wherever you do! You can also get a fresh look with every appointment by choosing colorful bands that let you express your personality or celebrate the season. And if you choose clear bands, your braces can be less noticeable.

Invisalign: The Best Option

Invisalign has become extremely popular in recent years. In fact, over 15 million people have chosen Invisalign to address their orthodontic needs! This treatment involves a series of clear aligners that slowly move your teeth into the desired positions. Since the aligners are clear when they’re in use, this is the most discreet option. The aligners are also removed when eating, so patients can continue to enjoy all their favorite healthy foods.

At Adirondack Orthodontics, we’re proud to have earned the distinction of being a Diamond Invisalign Provider, which means we rank among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the country!

Braces vs Invisalign: Comparing the Key Factors

• How Much They Cost: While the costs of both Invisalign and braces vary, Invisalign tends to be the more expensive option. However, it’s important to factor in dental insurance coverage and available discounts before you determine which option is more affordable for you and your family.
• How They Look: One of the most common reasons our patients choose Invisalign is that it’s a discreet option. Invisalign comes in a series of clear aligners, while braces involve metal brackets being placed on the teeth for the duration of the treatment. If you want a less obtrusive treatment, Invisalign may be the best option for you.
• How They Feel: Moving your teeth into their proper positions, no matter the method, can be an uncomfortable experience. However, braces tend to be a little more uncomfortable because brackets are not just placed on the front of teeth but around the back molars as well. This can result in discomfort inside of your mouth.
• How Convenient They Are: Braces are easy to manage because your orthodontist does all the work during your appointment. Invisalign requires you to take the aligners on and off and use them in the correct sequence. However, this also means that Invisalign makes it easy to floss and brush your teeth, and you won’t have to forget any of your favorite healthy foods. Braces require you to limit or stop eating certain foods and maneuvering a toothbrush and floss around the brackets and wires can be difficult.
• How Well They Work: Fortunately, following your orthodontist’s instructions will mean that Invisalign and braces are equally effective. When it comes to the end result, you don’t need to choose one over the other.

See What’s Best for You – Call Us for a Consultation

You can trust that our team will give you the perfect smile with the treatment that works best for you. The best way to determine which one will suit your needs is to call or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We can provide you with an exam and let you know the advantages of each type of treatment and recommend one for you.

With convenient locations in Albany, Clifton Park, Latham, East Greenbush, Glens Falls, and Schenectady, Adirondack Orthodontics is your trusted orthodontic clinic in New York. Let’s work together to achieve your best smile!

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Summer Snacks That Are Safe for Braces

Enjoying the season without compromising your smile

Summer is the season when people love to go on vacation and enjoy the sweeter things in life! However, while people undergoing orthodontic treatment can safely enjoy most summer fun, anyone with braces will know that they should be a little more careful about what they eat. 

It is pretty common knowledge that people with braces should avoid foods that are hard or sticky, as they can get stuck in the brackets, leaving sugar on the teeth and causing tooth decay. Some of the worst foods to eat with braces include caramel, gum, and popcorn. 

If you want to continue enjoying these sweet treats and sticky goodies, Invisalign may be the ideal orthodontic treatment for you, as you can take the aligners out when eating. If you do have braces, however, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the best summer snacks still!  

Here are a few sweet (and savory) summertime treats we’ve put together for your eating pleasure.

1.  Fruits

Watermelon, bananas, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and ripe/soft fruit are fine to eat with braces. Plus, these fruits are perfect for cooling down on a sultry day or enjoying while on a picnic!

2. Seafood

Most types of seafood are perfectly fine to eat if you have braces, including fish, crab meat, lobster meat, and more. If you’re someone who craves fresh seafood in the summer, go ahead and indulge!

3. Ice Cream

Soft-serve ice cream is a braces-friendly option that allows you to indulge in the classic summer treat without worrying about damaging your braces. Unlike traditional hard ice cream, soft-serve is much gentler on braces and less likely to cause discomfort. Whether you prefer classic vanilla or adventurous flavors like mango or matcha, soft-serve ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your smile.

4. Smoothies

Smoothies are another fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer while keeping your braces safe. Blend together a combination of fruits, such as berries, peaches, and pineapple, with some yogurt or milk for added creaminess. You can even sneak in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost. Smoothies are not only delicious and braces-friendly but also a great way to stay hydrated during the hot summer months.

5. Milkshakes

Milkshakes are a quintessential summer treat, and the good news is that they can be enjoyed even with braces! Add your favorite flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry, along with a scoop of soft ice cream. You can also throw in some ripe bananas or peanut butter for extra creaminess and flavor. Just be sure to avoid any hard or crunchy toppings like nuts or candy that could potentially damage your braces.

Protect your smile this summer

Plenty of other foods can help you beat the heat and cool down without interfering with your braces. Just remember that some foods should be cut into smaller pieces. And, of course, don’t forget to follow daily tooth brushing and flossing guidelines to take care of your teeth while enjoying the summer!

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The Best and Worst Halloween Candy for Braces

Protecting Your Smile: Evaluating Halloween Candy Choices for Braces

Everyone should be able to enjoy the candy they get when trick or treating, including those with braces! Yet certain kinds of candy can jeopardize the health of your teeth and the state of your orthodontia. Taking care of your teeth is essential, especially when you’re investing in braces and the long-term beauty of your smile. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you bring home your candy haul this Halloween.

Understanding the Risks

Before diving into the specific candies, it’s essential to understand why some treats are problematic for braces. Braces consist of brackets, wires, and bands that are delicate and susceptible to damage. Hard, sticky, or chewy candies can easily get lodged in braces or cause brackets to break. Additionally, biting into hard candies can put excessive pressure on the braces, leading to discomfort or even damage to the teeth.

The Best Halloween Candy Choices

Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious Halloween treats that are safe for braces. Soft chocolates, such as milk chocolate bars or peanut butter cups, are generally a safe option as they melt easily in the mouth and are unlikely to damage braces. Similarly, treats like marshmallows or soft caramels can be enjoyed in moderation.

Another excellent choice for brace wearers is sugar-free gum. Not only does sugar-free gum satisfy the craving for something sweet, but it also promotes saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria from the mouth.

Proceed with Caution

While some candies are safer for braces, it’s essential to consume them with caution. Even softer treats can still pose a risk if not eaten carefully. For example, while chocolate is generally safe, avoid bars filled with nuts or crunchy ingredients that could potentially damage braces. Similarly, soft caramels should be enjoyed sparingly to prevent them from sticking to the brackets or wires.

The Worst Offenders

On the other end of the spectrum are candies that should be avoided entirely by those with braces. Hard candies, such as lollipops, jawbreakers, or candy apples, pose a significant risk of damaging braces. Biting into these hard treats can cause brackets to break or wires to bend, leading to discomfort and potential delays in orthodontic treatment.

Sticky candies, like gummy bears, taffy, or caramel candies, are equally problematic. These candies have a tendency to get stuck in braces, making them difficult to remove and increasing the risk of tooth decay and other oral health issues.

Tips for Enjoying Halloween with Braces

While it’s important to be mindful of candy choices, it doesn’t mean brace wearers can’t enjoy Halloween festivities. Here are some tips for a braces-friendly Halloween:

1. Plan Ahead: Before heading out for trick-or-treating or attending Halloween parties, make a plan for which candies are safe to enjoy with braces.
2. Moderation is Key: Enjoy treats in moderation and avoid overindulging in candies that could potentially harm braces.
3. Brush and Floss: After indulging in Halloween treats, be sure to brush and floss thoroughly to remove any lingering candy particles and prevent tooth decay.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help wash away sugar and food particles from the mouth, reducing the risk of cavities and other dental issues.
5. Attend Orthodontic Check-ups: Regular visits to your orthodontist are crucial for ensuring that your braces are in good condition and that your treatment is progressing as planned.

Have a fun and spooky Halloween!

Follow these tips this Halloween – and any time you eat something sweet – and you’ll be equipped to take care of your braces. If you have any questions about how to brush, floss, or generally care for your teeth and braces, call Adirondack Orthodontics. We would be happy to help.

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