What Should I Do If I Get Food Stuck in My Braces?

Braces are a wonderful way to straighten teeth and treat some other oral health issues. In fact, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, it’s estimated that 50% to 75% of people could benefit from orthodontic treatment. However, braces do require a good bit of care and attention. A common problem that people face when receiving orthodontic care is getting food stuck in their braces. Here are a few tips on what to do if this happens to you.

Drink Lots of Water

Drinking water or swishing water in your mouth might dislodge the food from the braces. This is a convenient way to fix the problem quickly. Drinking water throughout the day is recommended for your health as well not only to hydrate but to cut down on the amount of bacteria clinging to your teeth, which can lead to tooth decay.

Carry Floss With You

It’s a good idea to always have some floss with you. This can help you avoid embarrassing situations. Many people who have braces also find it helpful to use a floss threader to help them get started with flossing with braces. You can talk to a reliable orthodontist about this tool as well.

Use an Interproximal Brush

An interproximal brush is a long, thin brush that helps clean between the teeth. This is an effective tool for removing food that is stuck. This works much like a toothpick, so be careful not to poke your gums while using it.

How to Avoid Getting Food Stuck

There are some steps you can take to avoid getting food stuck in your braces as well. You should avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods. You should also make it a point to brush after every meal, and you might find it helpful to cut food into smaller pieces and eat more slowly.

If you find that you have a piece of food stuck stubbornly in your braces that you can’t remove on your own, you may need the help of a reliable orthodontist. Fortunately, our team at Imagine Braces can help. Give us a call today if you need assistance with your braces or if you’re considering orthodontic treatment. We will be happy to assist you with your orthodontic needs.