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Getting braces is a step towards achieving a beautifully aligned smile, but can present challenges especially when it comes to oral hygiene. Following good oral hygiene practices can help to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment journey. Here’s a handy guide to assist you in keeping your mouth fresh and healthy while wearing braces.
Effective Brushing Methods for Braces
Your brushing routine becomes even more important when you have braces on. Food particles and plaque can easily get stuck in the brackets and wires potentially leading to cavities and gum issues if not cleaned thoroughly. Here are some useful brushing techniques;
Selecting the Right Toothbrush; Opt for a toothbrush with soft bristles or an electric toothbrush designed with a specialised orthodontic head. These tools are made to clean around the braces without causing harm to the brackets.
Brushing After Every Meal; It’s advisable to brush your teeth after each meal to remove any food particles that might be trapped in your braces. If you can’t brush, rinsing your mouth with water can help remove debris.
Focus on Technique; Hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle towards the gum line. Use circular motions for thorough cleaning. Make sure to pay attention to the areas around the brackets and wires while brushing your teeth. Brush all sides of each tooth including the inner and chewing surfaces.
Stick to the Two Minute Rule; Remember to brush for least two minutes every time you brush. Using a timer can help ensure that you give each part of your mouth attention.
Flossing with Braces
Flossing can be more challenging with braces. It’s crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and below the gum line. Here’s some tips on how to do it.
Use Orthodontic Floss; Special floss threaders or orthodontic floss are designed to assist you in threading the floss under the wires of your braces making it easier to reach between your teeth without causing any damage to your braces.
Be Gentle; Gently slide the floss between your teeth and, along the gum line. Avoid snapping the floss as this could potentially harm both your gums and braces.
Consider Water Flossers; Water flossers, also known as ‘oral irrigators’ offer an alternative to traditional flossing methods. They use a stream of water to clear away plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around braces. Many orthodontists suggest water flossers as they can be more comfortable while being just as effective as flossing methods.
Top Dental Products for Braces
Choosing good dental products is crucial for maintaining good oral health with braces. Here are some recommendations;
Special Orthodontic Toothbrushes; These toothbrushes are designed with bristle patterns to clean effectively around brackets and wires.
Fluoride Toothpaste; Using a good fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities, which is especially important when cleaning becomes more challenging with braces.
Antibacterial Mouthwash; Regular rinsing with mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup and decrease the risk of gum disease.
Interdental Brushes; These small brushes are excellent for reaching between wires and teeth targeting spots that a regular brush might miss easily. They are particularly useful in dislodging food particles trapped in braces.
Importance of Regular Dental Check Ups
It’s essential to schedule visits, to both your orthodontist and dentist during braces treatment. Regular dental check ups play a role in ensuring that your braces are properly adjusted and your oral health is well taken care of. Here’s why these appointments hold significance;
Professional Cleanings; Despite your good brushing routine, certain areas can be tricky to clean thoroughly. Opting for a dental hygiene appointment can help eliminate plaque and tartar buildup thus reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Monitoring Progress; Your orthodontist will closely monitor the progress of your treatment making adjustments to ensure that your teeth are aligning as planned. They will also address any issues promptly such as damage to brackets or wires.
Preventative Measures; Regular check ups enable your dentist to identify any problems early on such as tooth decay or gum inflammation allowing for timely treatment before they worsen.
Maintaining a good oral hygiene discipline while wearing braces may require extra care and effort but the positive outcomes make it worthwhile. By following these tips and recommendations you can ensure the health of your teeth and gums throughout your orthodontic journey. Remember to use the tools, brush and floss regularly and keep up with your dental appointments consistently. With dedication and attentiveness you’ll achieve a beautiful smile with a well managed braces treatment.
If you are looking for the #1 choice Orthodontist in St Albans or the surrounding area, then please contact us.