Brushing and flossing play a vital role in maintaining good oral health and a healthy smile. However when it comes to braces, it is no secret that the process can become a chore. Braces can be difficult to maintain as it is not always easy to clean between the brackets, especially if your braces are non removable. Although it is a little more challenging than regular brushing and flossing, there are definitely steps you can take to make it easier.
Make sure you are using the right toothbrush
Braces can make cleaning your teeth challenging. A conventional toothbrush will tend to fray faster when used to brush the braces and wires that hold your teeth in place. Thus you might want to consider using an orthodontic toothbrush that is specially designed to brush your braces. This helps dislodge the food particles that tend to get stuck in your braces. Brushing too hard may also lead to gum recession around your braces. Brushes with smaller heads and soft bristles are recommended during your braces treatment. If you use an adult toothbrush with hard bristles, it could even cause damage to the brackets or elastomeric ties.
An interdental toothbrush is recommended to supplement the regular brushing. This is a special tool with a filament that can be carefully maneuvered around the spaces under the archwire and around the brackets. This is particularly beneficial for those who wear braces as it can target hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
Use flossing tools
Flossing your teeth helps remove food debris, plaque, and bacteria in between teeth that can cause tooth decay. With braces, you may find it difficult to floss properly. Areas where you could just run the floss gently between your teeth and gums before will now have wires running across the middle of your teeth that get in the way. As such, you will need to invest more time in flossing than before. Tools like floss threaders and water flosses are a great way to get behind your braces and clean them thoroughly.
Choosing a wax-coated floss can also help make the process easier as they slide between the teeth more easily without catching on your braces and leaving behind shreds of floss. On top of that, you should also aim to brush your teeth before flossing so as to loosen and remove food particles more easily from your teeth and braces.
Replace your toothbrush often
An essential way to make sure you have clean, healthy teeth is by using a toothbrush with bristles that have not been worn out. Most dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months – this is because the bristles deteriorate over time, and the brush will not be as effective. Braces can wear down the bristles even faster. Hence, it is important to replace your toothbrush more often to get the best possible results. As soon as you notice that the bristles are worn or frayed, you should consider replacing your toothbrush.
Conclusion
Properly caring for your teeth while you have braces is essential to the success of your orthodontic treatments and will help to create beautiful, healthy smiles for years to come. Here at The Braces Practice, we offer a wide range of dental services such as ceramic braces and metal braces for students, as well as treatment plans at our dental clinics in Holland Village and Bedok North. Our experienced team is committed to providing effective solutions for all your dental needs, so reach out to us to learn more about our services!
