If you’re bracing yourself for getting braces, it’s time to relax! Four Corners Dental Group is here to help. Committed to offering state-of-the-art, affordable dental care to Anchorage and Wasilla residents, this trusted family dentistry practice is passionate about educating clients about caring for their teeth. 

While you wear braces, keep your smile shining bright with these oral health tips from the Alaskan family dentistry practice:

• Keep It Clean: Because braces create new nooks and crannies for food particles to get caught in, it's crucial to brush and floss thoroughly. Use a soft brush to gently but meticulously brush, and try to clean your teeth after every meal. Careful flossing is also key to keeping your teeth healthy and clean. You may need to use floss threaders to guide the floss beneath your wires; these can easily be found at most drug stores.
• Moisturize Your Lips: Chapped lips are common with braces, so carry lip balm to keep your smile in its most confident and comfortable state. You may want to try beeswax or coconut oil lip balms as an alternative to petroleum-based products if you need extra moisturizing power.
• Wait To Whiten: Unfortunately, now isn’t the time to brighten your pearly whites. Teeth whitening products of any kind, including toothpastes and mouthwashes, aren’t ideal when you have braces. Focus on careful brushing and remember you can always talk to your dentist about whitening and other cosmetic dentistry treatments after your braces are removed.
• Chew Carefully: When you have braces, chewy, sugary foods can cling to your teeth, causing plaque buildup and possible decay. You should avoid caramels, gummy candy, taffy, chewing gum, and similar treats when you have braces, and try to abstain from drinking soda and eating too much sugar. If you have braces, you also shouldn't eat popcorn, corn on the cob, or bite into an uncut apple—these foods can damage your wires and brackets, setting the stage for an emergency dentist visit.

For braces support and all your other dental health needs, rely on Four Corners Dental Group for high-quality, affordable dental care in Anchorage and Wasilla. Call (907) 258-3384 to set up an appointment at their Anchorage office, or call (907) 376-2790 to reach the Wasilla practice. You can also visit their website to learn more about their family dentistry services.