If you’re required to have normal braces instead of something like Invisalign, then you need to take extra special care of your teeth and orthodontics to prevent cavities, gum disease and other problems from forming.
Having braces doesn’t give you a pass on your regular dental care. In fact, it makes it more involved, but also even more important. We’ll tell you all about proper dental care with braces and what happens when you don’t.
Brushing With Orthodontics
When you have orthodontics in your mouth, brushing needs to take longer than usual. You need to go slower and generally be more careful. Brackets and rubber bands are easy places for bacteria and food particles to gather.
You should brush your teeth and orthodontics after you eat. You also have to be gentler when brushing as well. If you brush too hard you might damage the orthodontics or irritate your gums. It’s a good idea to use an extra soft toothbrush on your teeth and orthodontics.
If the brackets and other parts are difficult to clean, then invest in a water flosser that can reach places your brush cannot.
In a Hurry, Try a Proxy Brush
If you need to clean your orthodontics, but don’t have access to a toothbrush, then you can try using a proxy brush. It’s a tool that has tapered brush that can remove plaque and food particles from the orthodontics.
One thing to avoid when cleaning your braces is whitening toothpaste. You don’t want to have your braces removed and find out parts of your teeth are pearly white and other darker because the braces kept those areas from being exposed to the toothpaste whiteners.
Braces and Flossing
There are flosses designed specifically for braces and others that you can use. Superfloss is stiffer than normal floss and slides under the wiring. There’s also regular floss on it as well to get the plaque under the gum line.
There is also a floss threader. Regular floss is threaded into it and you can slide the threader under the wire. You can then remove the threader and use the floss.
Are you curious about braces or Invisalign? Contact Dr. Ed today and schedule an appointment.