Brushing up your oral hygiene routine becomes even more important when you have braces. Food particles can easily get trapped around the brackets and wires, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. But fear not, a sparkling smile is still achievable with braces! Here are some tips to help you maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic journey:

Brushing Like a Pro: Brushing is your best defense against plaque buildup. Aim for at least five brushing sessions a day, ideally after every meal and snack, and before bed. Spend a minimum of five minutes each time, focusing on all surfaces of your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head that can easily maneuver around the braces. A manual toothbrush with angled bristles or an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head can be particularly effective.

Mastering the Technique:  Here’s a breakdown of the brushing technique: Tilt the brush at a 45-degree angle towards your gumline. Gently brush in small circular motions, paying special attention to the areas around the brackets, under the wires, and along the gumline. Do not forget to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth and your tongue to remove bacteria.

Flossing with Finesse: Flossing is another crucial step in your routine. Regular dental floss can be tricky to navigate around braces. Consider using orthodontic floss, which is specifically designed for this purpose. It has a stiffer section to thread under the wires and a softer section to clean between the teeth. Alternatively, floss threaders can help you guide regular floss under the wires. Take your time while flossing, gently following the curve of each tooth to remove plaque and debris.

Interdental Aids for Extra Cleaning:  For a more thorough clean, consider using interdental brushes. These small brushes resemble tiny pipe cleaners and can effectively clean between teeth and around braces where a toothbrush might struggle to reach.

Fluoride is Your Friend: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. Use a fluoride toothpaste recommended by your dentist and contact us.  Avoid abrasive toothpastes that can irritate your gums or scratch your braces.

Maintaining a Healthy Mouthwash Habit:  Antimicrobial mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your routine, but it should not replace brushing and flossing. Use a mouthwash that is alcohol-free to avoid drying out your mouth. Swish for about 30 seconds after brushing and flossing, but avoid rinsing away the toothpaste as it contains fluoride which continues to protect your teeth.

Dietary Adjustments: Certain foods can damage your braces or make cleaning them more difficult. Avoid hard foods like nuts, candy, and raw vegetables. Sticky foods like caramel and gummies can get stuck in your braces and are difficult to remove. Opt for softer foods like fruits, vegetables cut into bite-sized pieces, yogurt, and cheese. If you do indulge in a sugary treat, make sure to brush your teeth afterward.

Regular Dental Checkups are Key:  Do not skip your regular dental checkups while you have braces. In addition to your standard cleaning, your dentist will check your braces for any damage and ensure your treatment is progressing smoothly.