Braces are a great way to straighten your teeth and improve your smile. They can fix bite problems and boost your confidence. While wearing braces, the brackets and wires might feel like they’re in the way, but with proper care, you can keep your teeth healthy and clean throughout the process.
Even though braces can make oral hygiene more challenging, taking care of your teeth is essential. Without a good routine, you could face problems like cavities or gum disease. These issues might even slow down your orthodontic treatment. Read on to learn how to care for your teeth while wearing braces.
Stick to a Daily Cleaning Routine
Good oral hygiene means cleaning your teeth every day. Throughout the day, bacteria in your mouth create a sticky film called plaque. This film, along with leftover food, can damage your teeth if not removed. A strong oral hygiene routine keeps plaque under control.
Braces don’t change the importance of brushing and flossing—they just make it more important. If you let plaque build up, you risk tooth decay, gum disease, or other issues. These problems can interfere with your orthodontic treatment and leave you with permanent damage.
To avoid these risks, brush your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and at night. Floss daily to remove food and plaque from between your teeth and braces where your toothbrush can’t reach. You should also visit your dentist regularly for cleanings. They can remove any buildup and check for problems you might not notice on your own.
Brush Carefully and Thoroughly
Brushing your teeth with braces takes a little extra time, but it’s worth the effort. With brackets and wires in place, you can’t clean all areas at once like you normally would. Instead, you’ll need to use more targeted brushing techniques.
Start by holding your toothbrush at an angle above the brackets, brushing downward toward the gumline. Then, angle the brush upward to clean the area below the brackets. Finally, brush the space between the brackets and wires. Taking your time to clean each section helps ensure no plaque or food is left behind.
Use gentle motions to avoid damaging your brackets or wires. A soft-bristled toothbrush works best because it’s less likely to cause irritation or harm your braces. If you do notice any broken wires or brackets, call your dentist right away to get them fixed.
Try Special Tools for Better Cleaning
Standard toothbrushes and floss are effective, but braces can make it hard to use them in some areas. Luckily, there are tools designed to help clean around orthodontic appliances.
Angled brushes, also called interdental brushes, are small and can reach between the wires and teeth. These brushes are great for getting into tight spots and removing trapped food. You can also use a water flosser, which sprays a gentle stream of water to clean between teeth and around braces.
Floss picks are another handy option. These are easier to maneuver than regular floss, making it quicker to clean between your teeth. Ask your dentist for recommendations on the best tools to make your oral care routine easier.
Keep Your Smile Healthy During Treatment
Taking care of your teeth with braces is important not just for the success of your treatment but also for your long-term oral health. By brushing and flossing every day and using the right tools, you can protect your teeth and gums while enjoying the benefits of straighter teeth.
If you have questions about cleaning your teeth or need advice about braces care, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist. They’re there to help you keep your smile healthy and make your treatment as smooth as possible.