With Halloween only a week away, Dr. Hodgkins knows that there will soon be many tricks and treats! While this festive holiday is full of costumes and fun activities, it can also be a harmful time for the teeth and braces of our Cedar Park and Austin, TX young trick-or-treaters. Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. It is important to follow these simple tips to prevent cavities and damage to your braces this Halloween:
• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up
• As always, avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, and chewy candy that can be damaging to your braces
If you happen to damage your braces, please give Dr. Hodgkins and our staff a call immediately. Typically, small problems can be solved over the phone. Loose brackets or wires can usually be made more comfortable by applying some wax until you can come into our office.
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