Cleaning teeth with braces can be challenging. But with the right resources, you can brush and floss effectively during your orthodontic treatment. Dr. Beth and our team offer some helpful recommendations to set you up for success.
Oral Hygiene with Braces: What Tools Do I Need?
Many patients worry that they'll need expensive dental tools to clean their teeth properly during orthodontic treatment. But chances are, you probably already have what you need in your bathroom cabinet. Here are the most important tools for cleaning teeth with braces:
Soft-bristled toothbrush: Medium or hard brushes can damage the enamel and gum tissue. All patients should purchase soft-bristled toothbrushes, whether they wear traditional braces or not.
Non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride is essential for remineralizing enamel and preventing cavities, which is especially helpful during orthodontic treatment. However, you should also choose a gentle toothpaste that doesn't include abrasives like magnesium carbonate, phosphate salts or silicates.
Floss and floss threaders: Braces make it more difficult to clean between the teeth, but it's still crucial to do so. Threaders can help you lace the floss underneath your braces so you can clean hard-to-reach areas.
Interproximal brushes: These tiny brushes – sometimes called "Christmas tree brushes" due to their shape – help clean plaque and tartar that accumulate between the teeth and around brackets and wires.
Antibacterial mouthwash: Finish up your oral hygiene routine with mouthwash to help reduce harmful bacteria. We recommend using a product with fluoride to help strengthen your enamel and reduce the appearance of white spots (decalcification) on your teeth.
Many patients ask us if water flossers are beneficial for cleaning teeth with braces. Water flossers are an excellent way to wash away larger pieces of food and debris. However, they do not remove cavity-causing biofilm. Therefore, if you have a water flosser, be sure to use it in conjunction with traditional floss.
Cleaning Teeth with Braces: Techniques for Success
Patients should brush their teeth twice a day at a minimum. If you wear braces, three times a day is optimal. Furthermore, you should spend at least two minutes cleaning your teeth every time you brush, ensuring that all surfaces are addressed. Because gingivitis is more likely to occur when wearing braces, be sure to pay special attention to the gumline. Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle into the gums and brush using a gentle back-and-forth motion. This helps sweep away plaque and bacteria in the sulcus (where the gum tissue meets the teeth).
Be sure you clean between the teeth at least once a day. Floss threaders can help you reach difficult areas more easily. Once the floss is between the teeth, wrap it around one tooth in a C-shape. Then move the floss up and down the tooth seven to 10 times, going as deep into the gumline as you can without causing pain. Next, wrap the floss around the adjacent tooth in a similar fashion and repeat these steps. Continue this process until you've cleaned between every tooth. Interproximal brushes can also be used in conjunction with floss. Ask your dentist or hygienist to demonstrate proper techniques at your next visit.
What if I Don't Have Traditional Braces?
If you have Invisalign® instead of metal braces, you'll be able to remove your aligner trays to brush and floss. Keep in mind, however, that routine dental visits are essential for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment of any kind. While you're wearing braces, your orthodontist and dentist will work closely together to ensure you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you desire.
Want to Learn More about Cleaning Teeth with Braces? Contact Us Today.
Do you have more questions about oral hygiene with braces, or the overall process of getting braces in Las Vegas? Reach out to a member of our Las Vegas, NV team. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment at our practice, contact us today.
