Although braces offer many benefits, they come with certain challenges as well. And among them, cleaning teeth is cited as the major one. People with braces often find it hard to clean their teeth and floss. And since it is indispensable for attaining optimal dental health, you certainly cannot compromise on oral hygiene.
With that said, take a look at some effective tips for teeth cleaning with braces:
Use a Toothbrush with Soft Bristles
It is not uncommon for people with braces to miss out on cleaning the top part of their teeth, which lies between the gums and braces’ brackets. Leaving it uncleaned can result in plaque buildup, which can result in a plethora of oral health issues.
Using a toothbrush with soft bristles will enable you to clean every part of your teeth conveniently without irritating them.
Take Your Time
Do not rush the process when you’re brushing your teeth with braces. Instead, take your time and make sure all the surfaces of your tooth and braces are cleaned thoroughly. It is recommended to spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth actively.
In some cases, patients face difficulties due to brackets and wires reaching all surfaces. In such a situation, dentists recommend using a proxabrush for properly cleaning teeth. Because of its flexibility and small size, it can reach hard-to-access areas and help to maintain good oral hygiene. It should be used in addition to your regular brush and floss.
Brush After Every Meal
If you want to maintain healthy teeth with braces, adopt the habit of brushing after every meal, instead of twice a day. It is important due to the fact that brace wires are prone to catching food debris. So, if you do not brush frequently, the food debris may result in damaging the tooth enamel.
Brushing after every meal helps to clean off the debris, thereby helping you maintain good oral health. This, however, can be a problem for working individuals. In such a case, having a travel toothbrush can prove to be helpful for you.
Having said that, if you have eaten oranges, wait for at least half an hour before brushing as it can soften the enamel.
Avoid Using Too Much Toothpaste
When you use too much toothpaste, it creates foam, which can make it tough for you to see debris and plaque in order to remove it.
The right technique is to start with just a web toothbrush. This will allow you to easily clean areas between wires and around the brackets. Once you have cleaned them, use a small quantity of toothpaste and clean your teeth in a precise and picking motion.
Use a Mouthwash
Whether braces or not, you should make a habit of using mouthwash, particularly at night. It is recommended to select anti-cavity mouthwash, preferably with fluoride. It will help to protect enamel while reducing tooth decay.
After you have cleaned your mouth using a mouthwash, rinse for at least one minute. This practice will ensure there’s no debris left in your mouth.
Apart from the aforementioned ways, there are many other DIY teeth whitening tips and practices for teeth care with braces that you can follow. This will ensure your teeth remain bright and white.