Braces and Oral Hygiene: How to Keep Your Teeth Clean

Braces

Looking to achieve a perfect smile with your braces, but worried about maintaining good oral hygiene? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! While wearing braces can make it harder to keep teeth clean and healthy, there are plenty of tips and tricks that can help you maintain optimal dental care.  From brushing techniques to flossing strategies – let’s dive into everything you need to know for great oral hygiene with braces!

The Different Types of Braces

There are many different types of braces, and each type has its own set of pros and cons. Here are the most common types of braces:

1. Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type of braces. They are made of high-grade stainless steel and are bonded to your teeth with special dental cement. Metal braces are strong and durable, and can be used to correct a wide variety of dental problems. However, they can be uncomfortable and may cause irritation to your gums and cheeks.

2. Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made of clear or tooth-colored brackets that are bonded to your teeth. They are less visible than metal braces and can be a good option for people who are concerned about the appearance of their smile. However, ceramic braces can be more expensive than metal braces, and they may not be as strong or durable.

3. Invisalign® Clear Aligners

Invisalign® clear aligners are made of clear, plastic trays that fit over your teeth. They gradually move your teeth into alignment without the use of brackets or wires. Invisalign® is virtually invisible, making it a popular choice for people who want to improve their smile without anyone knowing they’re wearing braces. However, Invisalign® is more expensive than traditional braces, and it may not be an option for people with severe dental problems.

How to Keep Your Teeth Clean with Braces

If you have braces, you know that keeping your teeth clean can be a challenge. Food can easily get caught in your brackets and wires, and if you’re not careful, plaque and bacteria can build up. But don’t worry, there are a few things you can do to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy:

  1. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Angle the toothbrush towards your gum line to remove plaque from around your brackets.
  2. Floss daily: You may need to use a floss threader to help get the floss under your wires. Once the floss is through, gently rub it up and down along each tooth. Be sure to floss behind your back molars too!
  3. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash: This will help kill any bacteria that brushing and flossing missed.
  4. Eat healthy foods and avoid sugary snacks: Sticky foods like caramel or taffy can easily get stuck in your braces, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. Instead, opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables or hard cheeses—they’re good for your teeth AND they help clean them as you eat!

Flossing with Braces

Flossing with braces is important to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay. There are a few different ways to floss with braces, and the best method for you may depend on the type of braces you have.

For metal braces, you can use a floss threader to help guide the floss under the archwire. Start by threading the floss through the eyelet at the end of the threader. Then, insert the floss between two teeth, and gently guide it under the archwire. Use a back-and-forth motion to clean the sides of your teeth, and be sure to use a new section of floss for each tooth.

If you have ceramic or clear braces, you can use regular floss or a water flosser. To use regular floss, simply wrap the floss around each tooth, being careful not to snap it against the gums. For a water flosser, direct a stream of water between each tooth to remove plaque and food particles.

The Bottom Line

Keeping your teeth clean while wearing braces can be a challenge, but it is essential to maintain healthy and attractive teeth. The tips we’ve discussed in this article such as brushing twice daily with an electric toothbrush, flossing with braces threaders or waxed dental floss, avoiding sugary foods and drinks, and visiting the dentist regularly will help you keep your mouth in top condition during orthodontic treatment. With these simple steps combined with good oral hygiene habits, you will be sure to have the smile of your dreams!

If you do not see a day or time that is best for you, please call the office for additional times that may be available.

Shelling Orthodontics

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