The everyday brace wearer in Monroe, NY looks forward to the day their braces are removed and they can see their beautiful, unhindered smile! But for some, white spots surround the area where their braces once were. These white spots are known as demineralization and can happen to anyone, even people who don’t wear braces.

Demineralization occurs when food is left on the teeth to interact with bacteria (otherwise known as plaque). This causes acid to form and this acid is what eats away at the calcium and phosphate of the teeth causing white spots or demineralization. Noteworthy, these spots can be sensitive and can lead to cavities, and braces are a common culprit due to the fact that braces are good at trapping food.

Here at Bracesetters Orthodontics we work hard to establish good oral hygiene with all our patients, and since braces trap food more easily, Dr. Michael Skrobola and Dr. Jonathan Schlosser offer these tips to brace wearers in Monroe, NY to help minimize white spots:

• Brush thoroughly after eating to remove any food debris from around the braces
• Floss once a day
• Use a fluoride rinse daily
• Limit sugary sodas and juices

Remember to brush thoroughly and often, and keep up with your visits to Bracesetters Orthodontics. Do that and you’ll have the best smile in town! And if you have any questions about your oral hygiene please feel free to contact us at 845.783.1344.