Achieving a beautiful smile with braces is an exciting journey, but maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing them requires extra effort. Whether you opt for traditional braces or removable braces options offered by braces clinics, proper care is crucial to prevent cavities, gum disease, and ensure the success of your treatment.
Here are some essential oral hygiene tips to follow while wearing braces:
Brushing:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. This may seem obvious, but it’s especially important with braces to remove food particles trapped around the brackets and wires.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head. This allows you to reach all the nooks and crannies around your braces and teeth.
- Use a gentle, circular motion while brushing, paying extra attention to the gum line and around the brackets.
- Consider using an electric toothbrush with a special “ortho” mode for a deeper clean and improved plaque removal.
Flossing:
- Flossing daily is crucial to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the wires of your braces.
- Use a floss threader or a water flosser (oral irrigator) specifically designed for braces to navigate around the brackets and wires more easily.
- Gently floss under the wires and between each tooth, making sure to move the floss up and down along the sides of each tooth.
Additional Tips:
- Rinse your mouth with water after meals and snacks. This helps remove any leftover food particles that may get stuck around your braces.
- Use an orthodontic cleaning kit that may include interdental brushes or picks to clean hard-to-reach areas around the brackets and wires.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Limit sugary and sticky foods that can easily get stuck in your braces and increase the risk of cavities.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings: This allows your dentist to monitor your progress, ensure your braces are functioning properly, and address any potential issues early on.
Remember:
Consistency is key: Following these oral hygiene tips consistently will not only maintain a sparkling smile but also ensure the success of your braces treatment.
Ask your dentist or orthodontist for personalised advice: They can provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs and the type of braces you’re wearing.
By following these simple yet crucial oral hygiene practises, you can maintain a healthy smile and achieve the beautiful results you desire while wearing traditional braces or removable options.