Braces are used to help correct the alignment of your teeth. When you’ve finished your time wearing braces, you’ll be left with teeth that are straighter and properly aligned with your jaw! This helps patients have more confidence, better dental health, and a healthier smile. However, it can be challenging to keep your teeth clean and healthy with braces on. Follow these tips to ensure you’re adequately brushing your teeth while you have braces on.
Be Consistent
Most people don’t brush every time they eat, but brushing after every time you eat is essential to preventing tooth decay. It’s even more important when you have braces, as food gets trapped under the braces and if it’s left there, it will harm your enamel. Get in the habit of carrying a travel toothbrush with you so there’s never an excuse to miss a brushing session!
Use a Soft Bristled Brush
Using a soft toothbrush will allow you to brush in an upward motion around your gums without irritation or pain. This helps to prevent plaque and protect your gums against infection. A soft brush is especially important when you’re brushing so many times per day!
Less is More with Toothpaste
More toothpaste will not leave you with cleaner teeth. In fact, using too much toothpaste will cause more harm than good. Start by wetting your toothbrush with water and brushing for a few seconds like that. Then, apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and begin brushing again. That’s all you need to properly clean and protect your teeth!
Time Yourself
Setting a timer is eye-opening. You’re supposed to brush your teeth for two minutes every time you brush. Without setting a timer, you’re probably way overestimating the amount of time you’re actually brushing.
Upgrade Your Flossing
Flossing is more important than ever when you have braces. Waterpik’s are a type of tool that uses water and pressure to floss your teeth. This removes any food stuck between your teeth or in your braces. Upgrading to a Waterpik is expensive at first, but it’s well worth it for the health of your teeth under the braces and they last for years!
Swish Before Bed
Use mouth wash every night before bed, after your last tooth brushing session of the day. Swish the mouthwash for a minute to get all of the benefits. Looks for a mouthwash that specifically kills cavity-causing bacteria and protects your teeth’s enamel! Ask your dentist what type of mouthwash they recommend if you’re unsure where to start.
Contact Whiting Dental Arts
If you think you need assistance caring for your braces, or professional
dental cleaning, contact Whiting Dental Arts! We’re a trusted family dentist proud to serve the North Shore of MA. We offer a wide variety of services for every member of your family, so
schedule an appointment today!
