The desired end result of orthodontic treatment is to improve your oral health. But during treatment your oral health is more at risk, especially with braces. Why is this?
The same brackets and wires that are designed to straighten your teeth create places for plaque to build up. Braces also make it more challenging to brush and floss your teeth effectively, which can result in a decline in oral hygiene.
How can you maintain a healthy smile during braces treatment? Give these braces care tips a try and enjoy better oral health during and after treatment.
Use Effective Brushing Techniques
While you have braces you will need to adjust your brushing technique. Angle your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle. Brush above your brackets and below your brackets in all directions. The bristles of your toothbrush should also reach the spaces under your archwire and around your brackets as long as you are careful about the angle of your brush.
Get the Right Tools
Another helpful tip is to use different sizes and shapes of brush heads, such as round brushes to reach under your archwire and around your brackets. There are many different types of brushes designed for cleaning around orthodontics and dental work, and using these may improve your oral hygiene.
When it comes to flossing there are additional tools that make it easier. Flossing needles are made of plastic and are shaped like a sewing needle, allowing you to thread the floss under your archwire more easily. Superfloss is another option, with reinforced ends that are easier to thread under your archwire. Orthodontic flossing sticks are also available, with narrow heads to fit under braces.
Try Plaque Identifying Toothpaste
Are you sure you’re removing all of the plaque from your teeth? If you are unsure, try some plaque identifying toothpaste. This comes in a variety of colors that cling to the plaque on your teeth so that you can easily see where you need to brush more effectively.
Brush Your Teeth After Eating
One of the best ways to keep your teeth and braces clean is to brush after every time you eat. This not only removes food from your braces (saving you from embarrassment), it prevents plaque from clinging to the food residue on your teeth and causing cavities or gum disease.
Go to the Dentist For Regular Cleanings
Whether or not you have braces, you should go to the dentist twice a year to have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined. This is even more important during braces treatment, because you have a higher risk of decay and gum disease. If you are not brushing effectively, your dentist will see the effects and will be able to provide additional insight, tips, and if necessary, treatment.
Minimize Sugary Foods and Beverages
The less sugar you consume in your daily food and drink, the better your oral health will be. Sugar feeds the bacteria contained in plaque, which increases your risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces Care
Should I use mouthwash with braces?
It is safe and effective to use mouthwash while you have braces. Mouthwash can reduce bacteria levels in your mouth and reach places your toothbrush and floss may miss, especially around brackets and wires.
Should I remove orthodontic wax before brushing?
If you are using orthodontic wax to minimize irritation from your brackets, it is best to remove it before brushing. Plaque can get trapped under wax and cause decay. Any wax that is left behind will be removed by your toothbrush as you brush.
Garrick F. Wong DMD provides a variety of orthodontic treatments and solutions to transform smiles and improve the oral health of patients in Cos Cob, Connecticut and the surrounding area. Call 203-625-9888 or contact us today to learn more and schedule a complimentary consultation.