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The Basics of Teeth Braces: Tips and Tricks for Keeping Them Sparkling Clean
Keeping your teeth clean and healthy with braces on might seem like a contradiction in terms, but it’s definitely doable. Everyone with braces must learn how to do it. So, if you’re battling braces, here’s what you need to know.
Flossing
When you have braces, your typical grocery store brand won’t do. You need special floss, called threader floss. This floss has a rigid end which you can thread over the archwire and between your teeth. Then, once it’s in there, you use it like normal floss.
Do this for every tooth. The back teeth are really tricky and may require extra-special time and attention. You may need your dentist to show you how to clean these areas.
You can also use a floss threader, which is like a needle made for floss.
Brushing
Brushing is, of course, important. But, you should use a soft-bristled brush when cleaning your teeth. The head needs to be small enough to reach all areas inside your mouth. And, use a dab of toothpaste. You should brush all chewing surfaces thoroughly – inside, outside, and the chewing surface itself. Brush for at least 2 minutes, twice a day.
According to this orthodontist in NYC, to get between the braces and archwires, use an interdental brush, which is a small brush made specifically for getting into tight areas.
For the most part, you’re going to want to stick to a 45 degree angle on the brush head, and angle it towards the tooth and gums. Clean a small area at a time. When you’re finished, move on to the next area. Work your way around the mouth until you’re done.
You can also use specialized electronic toothbrushes that are made for people with braces. These brushes use specialized brush heads which make it easier to clean your teeth. And, it helps cut down on the time it takes to clean the braces and around the archwire. If you’re frustrated with manual toothbrushes, these can be a Godsend.
Gargle And Wash
A final step is to gargle and wash your mouth out with an antibacterial rinse. This will kill off any remaining bacteria and minimize the plaque buildup for the day. This is assuming that you brush between meals and before bed.
In addition to brushing, you also need to make sure you’re flossing after each meal and that you don’t allow food to become stuck in the braces or archwires. This can cause tooth decay over time, and gum disease. And, when you’re wearing braces, it’s easy to miss food particles.
Finally, make sure you’re going to your dentist every 4 to 6 weeks for a checkup. The dentist will need to inspect the braces for damage, change out the bands on the hardware, and make sure that the progress is going nicely.
Your dentist will tell you if you need to change up your cleaning routine or if everything looks fine. Make sure you follow the dentist’s instructions carefully and “to the letter.” A lot of your hygiene and oral health will depend on his or her advice.
Amelie Walters is a orthodontist assistant. A favorite of the regulars she always puts patients at ease, especially working with the younger ones to make sure they are happy with what’s happening.
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