A captivating smile is what everyone desires. People get dental braces to get a beautiful, straight smile. However, this orthodontic treatment comes with its own set of maintenance and instructions. Proper brushing and flossing techniques with braces can help you eradicate any discomfort, cavities, and inflammation of the gum tissue. However, brushing with braces requires some practice. To make it easy, here is a step-by-step guide on how to brush your teeth with braces.
Right Brushing Technique To Clean Your Teeth
Here is the proper technique for brushing your teeth with dental braces. Here are some steps to follow:
Rinse your mouth: Start by rinsing your mouth with water to remove any loose food particles.
Brush at a 45-degree angle: Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. This angle allows the bristles to reach under the wires and around the brackets. Brush from the top of each wire down to the bottom. Take the time to ensure that all plaque and debris are removed. Use your brush all the way around the upper and lower teeth.
Brush in small circular motions: Use small circular motions to brush each tooth individually. Pay extra attention to the areas around the brackets and wires, as these areas can easily trap food particles.
Brush all surfaces: Make sure to brush the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well to remove bacteria and freshen your breath. This includes
- Cleaning between the brackets: Use a small interdental brush to clean between each bracket and around them. This can help to remove plaque and food particles that may be trapped in those areas.
- Brushing the gums: Brushing the gums is also important when you have braces. Be gentle and make sure to brush above and on top of the braces as well as below them.
Floss or use interdental brushes: Floss between your teeth using floss threaders or interdental brushes after brushing. This step is important for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the brackets.
Rinse with mouthwash: Finish by rinsing your mouth with mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Frequency of Brushing
While most people without braces only need to brush twice a day, individuals with dental braces should expect to brush more often. Brushing after each meal is recommended to keep your teeth and braces clean and free from any food particles. This practice helps to prevent plaque buildup and reduces the risk of tooth decay.
Essential Tips About Brushing Your Teeth with Braces
Brushing teeth with dental braces requires some extra care and attention to ensure that both the teeth and the braces are properly cleaned. Here are the things you must know if you have dental braces:
Rinse after every meal: It is essential to rinse your teeth after every meal when you have braces. Brush your teeth twice a day, one before going to bed and the other after waking up. But rinse your mouth with water after every meal. This is because food particles can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires and can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush or an electric toothbrush: A toothbrush with rounded bristles is recommended for brushing braces. It is important to brush gently to avoid damaging the brackets or wires. You can also use an electric toothbrush for cleaning teeth with dental braces which follows the same mechanism as a manual toothbrush.
Brush for at least two minutes: It is recommended to brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time to make sure that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.
Use fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste is best for brushing with dental braces as it helps to prevent tooth decay. Your orthodontist may also recommend a fluoride rinse along with proper brushing and flossing.
Visit the dentist regularly: It is important to see your dentist regularly even with proper brushing for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can ensure that your teeth and braces are in good condition. Your dentist will make the necessary adjustments if needed.
Right Supplies For Brushing Your Teeth With Braces
It is important to gather the right supplies before you start brushing your teeth with braces. Having the right tools can make the process easier and more effective. Here are some supplies that will be helpful:
Toothbrush: Your toothbrush is the most important tool when brushing teeth with braces. It is crucial to choose the right type of brush that can effectively remove food particles and tartar from your teeth. Look for a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head that can easily reach all areas of your mouth including braces.
Toothpaste: The best options for brushing teeth with dental braces are fluoride toothpaste or toothpaste for sensitive teeth. These types of toothpaste can help protect your teeth from cavities and sensitivity.
Floss or interdental brushes: Flossing can be more challenging with dental braces. However, it is still important to clean between your teeth and around the brackets. You can use floss threaders or interdental brushes to make the process easier.
Mouthwash: Using a mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Look for an alcohol-free mouthwash that is safe to use with braces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, brushing your teeth properly is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and this is especially true when you have dental braces. Braces can make it more challenging to clean your teeth effectively and require some extra care and attention. By using the right tools, following the proper technique, and brushing more frequently, you can maintain good oral hygiene and keep your teeth and braces clean and healthy. Puranik’s Dental Care is the best dental Clinic in bangalore that specializes in dental braces. If you need more tips or want to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
