Hygiene Issues
People who wear braces must be diligent in ensuring that food particles and other debris do not get trapped in the network of brackets and wires. In addition, permanent ‘white scars’ can be left on the enamel if the area surrounding the brackets and wire is not cleaned on a daily basis. Bacteria live in the food and debris. Waste products from these bacteria are acid, which can remove calcium from the enamel and promote tooth decay. Daily oral hygiene such as brushing, flossing and rinsing are a necessity. People with orthodontic appliances can benefit from using Water Piks which emit small pressurized bursts of water than can effectively rinse away such debris.