How to Maintain Oral Hygiene with Braces
Whether you’re rocking metal brackets, ceramic braces, or even Invisalign, one thing is certain, your oral hygiene routine just got a little more complicated. However, keeping your teeth and braces clean isn’t as hard as it sounds. With the right tools and a bit of effort, you can prevent cavities, bad breath, and those pesky white spots that sometimes appear when braces come off. Let’s explore how you can maintain hygiene with braces.
The importance of oral hygiene with braces
Braces create tight spaces where food and plaque love to hide, making it easier for bacteria to thrive. If you don’t clean your teeth properly, you could end up with stains, gum disease, or even cavities once the braces come off. Good oral hygiene is about protecting your teeth so they look amazing when your braces are finally removed.
Brushing like a pro
Brushing is your first line of defense when it comes to keeping your braces and teeth clean. Here’s how to do it the right way:
- Use the right toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush is your best friend when you have braces. Manual bruising works fine, but an electric toothbrush makes it easier to reach tricky spots.
- Brush after every meal: Since braces trap food, it’s best to brush after every meal. If you can’t, at least rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to remove food particles.
- Master the right brushing technique: Master techniques such as holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and brush above and below the brackets in small circular motions. Brush the tongue, and always start by rinsing your mouth with water to loosen food particles.
Floss
Flossing with braces might seem like a mission impossible, but it’s essential for keeping your gums healthy and removing plaque buildup between your teeth. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Use the right tools: Using regular floss can be tricky with braces, so consider floss threaders for helping guide floss under the wires, orthodontic floss for working around the braces, and water flossers which are specifically made for people with braces, as they use water pressure to clean between the teeth.
- Be patient: Flossing with braces takes time, but once you get the hang of it, you will be able to do it quickly. Aim to floss at least once a day, preferably before bed.
Rinse with mouthwash
An antibacterial mouthwash is a great addition to your routine. It helps kill bacteria, freshens your breath, and reaches areas that brushing and flossing might miss. Look for a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities.
Regular dental visits
Even with great oral hygiene, visiting your orthodontist and dentist regularly is crucial. Your orthodontist will ensure your braces are doing their job properly, while your dentist can give your teeth a deep clean and check for any issues.
Endnote
Braces are a journey, and keeping your teeth clean along the way will ensure that when they finally come off, you’ll have the straight, healthy smile you’ve always wanted. It takes effort, but it’s totally worth it.