Braces are great for straightening teeth, closing gaps, and fixing misaligned bites, but it’s important to take care of them properly. When braces are not cleaned and taken care of, food can get stuck and stains can form on teeth. The last thing that anyone wearing braces wants is complications. So, is there a correct way to brush your teeth while wearing braces?
The Correct Way To Brush Your Teeth While Wearing Braces
- The Right Toothbrush is Important
Rather than use a regular toothbrush, it might be better to use one called an inter-dental toothbrush. This has been designed with a specially angled head and bristles so that it can more easily clean in-between braces and wires.
There are also some electric toothbrushes that have been designed with this in mind. Instead of manually brushing with a regular toothbrush, the rotating head of the electric toothbrush may allow better and more effective cleaning.
- Use the right brushing technique
When you’re brushing your teeth, you have to remember to accommodate for the braces and do the following:
- Angle the toothbrush so that you can clean the outer parts of the teeth. This is where there are no braces and brackets to navigate
- Turn the toothbrush so that you can move single bristles in between the wires and brackets. Do this as thoroughly and carefully as possible,
- Brush the insides of your teeth carefully,
- Floss afterwards so that you can reach those hard to get places where food debris often gets stuck.
As you use your toothbrush, make sure that you use small circular motions throughout.
- Rinse and rinse again
It’s also a good idea to try to get rid of any loose food debris by rinsing before you brush and rinsing after you brush. You may also use an approved mouthwash at the end of the day to help get rid of any plaque and bacteria that may cause problems.
Brush Your Teeth Right Way
If you have braces, you’ll need to get used to a different brushing routine. It’s important to be diligent and take your time so that you keep your braces and your teeth as clean as possible. Doing this will help to prevent oral health problems and keep your teeth and your braces in good shape.
To discuss your treatment with braces, book a consultation with Evolution Orthodontics.