Good oral care is essential for a healthy mouth, but it’s extra crucial with braces. Knowing how to clean teeth with braces will help you get the smile of your dreams when your treatment is complete.
Brush with an Electric Toothbrush
If you’re still using a manual toothbrush, you may want to consider making a change. There are pros and cons for both types, but cleaning braces is easier with an electric toothbrush. An electric toothbrush does a lot of the work for you and provides a deeper clean.
Tips for Successful Brushing
When you get braces, one of the first things you learn is how to brush your teeth with braces. There are a few tricks and tips that will help keep your teeth and braces clean.
- Pay extra attention when brushing to ensure you’re also cleaning around the brackets.
- Brush a few teeth at a time.
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush and replace it regularly, every three months or so.
- Brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle.
Change the Way You Floss
Flossing with braces may be a bit more challenging, but it’s necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Work the angles and around the brackets to dislodge food and debris.
If you struggle with traditional floss, try a water flosser. These tools use water to clean between teeth and make flossing with braces easier. Also, be sure to get a tutorial from your orthodontist prior to leaving the office to ensure you’re comfortable with the new process.
Brush After Every Meal
Brushing your teeth after every meal is essential because food gets caught in braces. Not only is it embarrassing to walk around with food stuck in your braces, but it can cause problems down the line. You don’t want to be stuck with discolored teeth because you didn’t brush after every meal.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
You probably heard about food restrictions with braces. Certain foods can damage your braces and make it harder to clean your teeth. Some of the foods to avoid with braces include:
- Sticky foods like gum, taffy, and caramels
- Whole apples
- Corn on the cob
- Popcorn
Visit the Orthodontist Regularly
Part of maintaining good oral care with braces involves regular checkups with your orthodontist to keep the process moving. If you don’t have your braces tightened at regular intervals, they won’t do much for your teeth.
Your orthodontist can also work with you on how to brush your teeth with braces and give you tips for flossing with braces. If you’re wondering about what foods to avoid with braces, your orthodontist can provide you with a list.
If you’re looking for a new orthodontist or interested in getting braces, the team at Jefferson Dental Care is happy to help. Contact the office nearest you to make an appointment and get started!
