Braces are extremely effective when it comes to straightening and realigning crooked teeth. The nice thing about braces, especially when compared to removable aligners, is that they’re cemented to your teeth, so you can set it and forget it. Even so, braces require a certain level of commitment from patients. They need to be kept as clean as possible, which can be difficult to do with all the wires and brackets in the way. So, how do you go about keeping your braces (and your teeth) clean? Below is a list of tips and tricks to consider as you practice good oral hygiene.
- Soft Toothbrush. A soft-bristled toothbrush is essential when it comes to cleaning your braces. Firm bristles could loosen the wires or damage the brackets on your teeth. Be sure to brush all surfaces as thoroughly as possible.
- Floss Threader. You can get these handy little tools from your orthodontist, or you can purchase them in stores or online. A floss threader has a sharp tip that allows you to thread the floss over, under, and around the wires that would otherwise make flossing impossible with braces.
- Water Flosser. If you’ve had braces for any amount of time, then you’re probably familiar with the concept of a water flosser. These machines shoot a concentrated stream of water into your mouth, allowing you to clean those hard-to-reach areas. Water flossers typically come with several attachments for optimal cleaning.
- Interproximal Brush. Also called interdental brushes or proxy brushes, an interproximal brush allows you to clean behind the wires and around the brackets of your braces. This tiny wire brush provides maximum precision when it comes to the fine details.
- It’s always a good idea to use mouthwash after brushing and flossing. This will kill any germs or bacteria that your routine might have missed.
- Be Prepared. Braces require quite a bit of upkeep, and that doesn’t stop when you’re out and about. Patients should always travel prepared. Consider packing a travel toothbrush and toothpaste and storing it in your pocket, bag, or purse for those times when you need to do a bit of cleaning on the go.
Noble Orthodontics stresses the importance of keeping braces clean to protect our patients from cavities or tooth decay. When you get your braces with us, we’ll go over the best techniques and resources for keeping your smile healthy throughout the treatment process. Call, email, or text us to schedule your free consultation today!
