Caring for your teeth with braces may seem like a challenge, but with the right approach, you can maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout your treatment. At MacKenzie Orthodontics, we understand that keeping your teeth clean while wearing braces requires a bit more effort, so we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you succeed.
Step 1: Use the Right Toothbrush
The first step in effective oral care with braces is using the right tools. A soft-bristled toothbrush is essential to avoid damaging the wires or brackets. An orthodontic toothbrush, which has V-shaped bristles designed to clean around the brackets, is also a great choice. You can also use a power toothbrush with a soft head for a more thorough clean. The key is to be gentle but thorough.
Step 2: Brush After Every Meal
Braces create many places for food and plaque to get trapped, which is why it’s crucial to brush your teeth after every meal or snack. When brushing, pay extra attention to the area around the brackets and wires. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and use short, gentle strokes. Make sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth, front, back, and chewing surfaces.
If you can’t brush immediately after eating, it’s a good idea to rinse your mouth with water to remove any food particles.
Step 3: Flossing with Braces
Flossing with braces is definitely possible, but it requires a little more effort than regular flossing. A floss threader or interdental brushes are helpful tools for getting floss behind the wires. Here’s how to floss with braces:
- Use the floss threader to guide the floss between your teeth and under the wire.
- Gently slide the floss up and down between each tooth to remove plaque and food particles.
- If you’re using interdental brushes, gently slide the brush between your teeth to clean around the brackets.
Don’t skip flossing, getting between your teeth is just as important as brushing to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Step 4: Rinse with Mouthwash
After brushing and flossing, rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. Mouthwash also helps freshen your breath and kill any lingering bacteria.
Step 5: Maintain Gum Health
Braces can sometimes irritate the gums, leading to inflammation or even gingivitis. To prevent this, be sure to brush your gums gently, and consider using a water flosser to help clean along the gum line. A water flosser can effectively remove food particles and plaque from areas where a toothbrush might not reach.
Step 6: Keep Your Braces Clean
In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth, it’s important to keep your braces clean. Use a soft toothbrush to clean the brackets and wires, and don’t forget to remove any sticky food or plaque buildup that might accumulate throughout the day.
Maintaining good oral hygiene with braces may take a little extra time and care, but it will pay off in the long run with a healthier smile. Remember, your orthodontic treatment is an investment in your dental health, and with these tips, you’ll keep your teeth and gums in top shape.