Braces improve your smile by gradually moving your teeth into alignment, but like any dental appliance, they require proper care. Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics in Fairfield, OH, provides orthopedic care for residents throughout the Greater Cincinnati area, and they offer several different types of braces for patients, including metal, clear, and even Invisalign braces. Today they're here to share a few tips that will help you keep your braces in excellent condition:

• Brush & Floss Often: Braces trap food particles. If those particles aren’t removed promptly, tooth decay can occur. Brush and floss after every meal to remove every speck of food from your braces. Your orthodontist will recommend a special type of floss or a floss threader that works with braces.
• Avoid Sticky & Hard Foods: Sticky foods can be hard enough to remove from your teeth when you don’t have braces. With braces, it’s almost impossible to remove foods like gummy candy, dried fruit, and gum from wires and brackets. Biting hard foods, such as nuts or hard pretzels, can cause wires to break. Popcorn should also be avoided. Remnants of the kernels tend to stick to wires and can be very difficult to remove.
• Wear A Mouth Guard When You Play Sports: Protect your investment in your smile by wearing a mouth guard if you play sports. Dr. Jacobs can recommend mouth guards that work well with braces.
• See Your Orthodontist Promptly When Problems Occur: No matter how carefully you care for your braces, problems can occur. Call Dr. Jacobs' office promptly if you notice a loose wire or bracket.

Interested in learning how braces can help you? Call Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics at (513) 823-3143 and schedule an appointment. Visit their website or Facebook page for more information about their services, including adult braces and braces for kids.