The good news? Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile during your orthodontic treatment is absolutely possible with the right tools and techniques! A few strategic habits can help you prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum issues while ensuring your teeth stay strong throughout your treatment.
To make things easier, we’re sharing five essential tips for keeping your braces clean and your smile fresh!
1. Don’t Skip Your Routine Dental Visits
Seeing Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, or Dr. Panagiotis Kyteas at Greater Houston Orthodontics is only part of your dental care routine! You still need to visit your general dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
Your dentist has specialized tools that remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas. Regular cleanings help prevent cavities and gum disease, which is especially important while wearing braces. Aim for dental visits every six months—or as often as your dentist recommends—to keep your smile in top shape!
2. Effective Brushing Strategies for Braces
Knowing how to brush your teeth with braces can make all the difference. Ideally, you will brush around your brackets, including the top, both sides and the bottom of the bracket. These areas are where food particles can get stuck, and if they aren’t brushed and removed each night and morning, they can lead to plaque and bacteria build-up pretty quickly.
Brush your gum line as well, angling your toothbrush upward 45 degrees to remove any trapped debris. Brush gently between your teeth and your archwires by angling the brush downward, then upward, to get behind the wire.Don’t forget the chewing surfaces and inner surfaces too!
3. Use MouthwashÂ
Mouthwash is a great addition to your routine! Not only does it help kill bacteria, but it also reaches areas that your toothbrush may miss. Swish for about 30 seconds after brushing to help rinse away lingering debris and bacteria. It’s an easy way to add an extra layer of protection to your oral hygiene routine!
4. Flossing
Flossing with braces can be tricky, but it’s one of the most important steps in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Traditional floss may be difficult to maneuver around brackets and wires, so consider using a floss threader or orthodontic floss for easier access.
Flossing at least once a day removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, reducing your risk of gum inflammation and cavities. While it may take some practice, sticking to a flossing routine will make a big difference in your oral health during orthodontic treatment.
5. Keep a Braces Care Kit with You
Braces require a little more maintenance throughout the day, especially when you’re away from home. Keeping a small braces care kit with you can be a lifesaver!
Some essentials to include:
- Travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss threaders or orthodontic floss
- Orthodontic wax for comfort if brackets or wires cause irritation
Having these items on hand makes it easier to maintain your hygiene routine wherever you go, ensuring you’re always prepared for a quick clean-up after meals.
Have More Questions About Braces Care?
At Greater Houston Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing expert guidance and care throughout your treatment journey. Dr. Amir Davoody, Dr. Rana Mehr, and Dr. Panagiotis Kyteas are here to ensure that you have all the tools and knowledge needed for a smooth and successful orthodontic experience.
If you have any questions about keeping your braces clean, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re happy to provide personalized tips and recommendations to help you maintain a healthy smile.