Getting braces is a major milestone for achieving straight teeth, but it comes along with its own set of problems, particularly when it comes to oral hygiene. Food particles are prone to sticking in the areas where the braces are, making it hard for you to clean them. If you have braces in West Palm Beach or beyond, you’ll know the problems.
But don’t worry. With the right methods and a little patience, it’s possible to keep your teeth clean and healthy during orthodontic treatment. This guide from Dr. Angela and the team at Palm Beach Orthodontics will walk you through everything you need to know so you’ll understand how to clean my teeth with braces efficiently.
Why Cleaning with Braces is Difficult
Your braces present several hiding spots for food particles and bacteria that were previously unavailable. The braces, wires, and bands that will be used present additional sites for bacteria growth, making it difficult to access each section of your teeth using a standard toothbrush.
The particles from the food that get stuck around your braces will act as a source of nutrients for the bacteria that are present in your mouth, making them produce more plaque. This can cause white spots, cavities, and gum disease. For individuals that wear braces, the effects can be severe since it will also affect the result that you are looking for from wearing the braces.
Many patients wonder, how do I clean my teeth with braces? You’re not alone.
Top Tips for Cleaning with Braces
Starting with the Right Tools
Your standard toothbrush may not prove sufficient anymore. Perhaps it’s time for an upgrade to an electric toothbrush that may prove more effective for cleaning around your braces. Another important purchase would also include interdental brushes, cone-shaped brushes that are exactly what’s needed for cleaning around wires and braces. These tools are vital if you want to clean teeth with braces thoroughly.
Master Your Brushing Technique
The brush needs to form a 45-degree angle with your gum line, taking a little longer around each brace. Then, brush around the wire, both top and bottom, making sure the gum line doesn’t get missed. This will take a little longer than normal, around three minutes when around the braces, instead of the normal two minutes.
Never Skip Flossing
Flossing will become harder, yet, it will also become more important than ever. You can use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to thread the floss through the wires. Thread the floss through each wire gently, and then floss between each tooth.
Rinse with Purpose
An antibacterial mouthwash can also help reach areas that your toothbrush may not reach. Swish vigorously to remove any food particles, but avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol if your mouth feels dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people tend to brush too aggressively or too hurriedly. Rushing through the process leads to missing important spots, while trying to see how hard you can brush will either break your braces or irritate your gums. Also, using regular floss without a threader proves to be problematic for cleaning.
Elsewhere, some people think that the more toothpaste, the better the cleaning, when in actuality, it can make too much foam and hamper your sight. The amount needed is only the size of a pea. You should focus on the best way to clean your teeth with braces rather than just using more toothpaste.
Keep Your Smile on Track
The procedure for cleaning teeth while wearing braces is a bit longer, but it’s well worth it. Not only can it prevent issues from arising, it can also lead to healthy teeth and strong oral hygiene habits while wearing braces.
Please don’t forget to schedule regular visits with Dr. Angela and the team. This will allow us to identify any problems that could arise and give you the specific advice that will fit your case. With regular care and technique, you can finish your treatment not only with straight teeth but healthy teeth too!