Quick poll: Do you brush and floss after every single snack/meal, or just stick to the usual morning and night? I always mean to be diligent, but sometimes... life happens. Anyone actually carry those little brush things everywhere?
I totally get what you mean—being super strict about brushing and flossing every single time just isn’t always realistic. I try to stick to mornings and nights, but if I eat something really sticky or get stuff caught in my aligners, I’ll use those little interdental brushes (I keep a couple in my bag). Honestly, sometimes I forget or just don’t have the time, but I figure as long as I’m consistent most of the time, it’s better than stressing out constantly. It’s all about balance for me.
Yeah, I’m definitely not perfect with it either. I try to brush after every meal, but honestly, sometimes life just gets in the way and I forget or I’m just not in the mood. I keep those little flossers in my car and backpack for emergencies, but half the time I end up using my finger to get stuff out (gross, I know). But I totally agree—if you’re at least consistent most days, it’s gotta count for something, right? I used to stress every time I slipped up, but now I just try to do my best and not freak out when things aren’t perfect. My ortho said as long as I’m not letting food sit in there all day, I’m good. Still, sticky foods are the worst... caramel is like my nemesis right now.
I totally get what you mean about not being perfect with it. I used to beat myself up every time I missed a brushing, especially when I first got my aligners. But honestly, stressing over every little slip just made the whole process feel way more overwhelming. I’ve found that as long as I’m not letting stuff hang out in there for hours, like your ortho said, it’s fine—consistency over perfection. Caramel though... yeah, that’s basically cement for braces. I swear, I had to stop eating it because I got so tired of spending half an hour trying to get it out.
Caramel is the arch-nemesis of braces, no kidding. I used to think I could sneak a piece here and there, but after one disastrous movie night (popcorn AND caramel—what was I thinking?), I learned my lesson. Now I just stick to softer snacks and try not to stress if I miss a midday brush. Those little brushes are great… when I remember to actually bring them. Most days, it’s just me, my regular toothbrush, and a silent hope nothing’s stuck in there before my next checkup.