You
would probably never dream of not bathing your body but give less
thought to not brushing or flossing your teeth. When you have braces, it is incredibly important that you give as much attention to cleaning the braces as you do to cleaning the rest of your body.
The
bands or bonded brackets on braces create small nooks and crannies
where food and plaque (an invisible file of bacteria) can hide. If
plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth for a long time, it can
increase the likelihood of tooth decay. This same process can also cause
permanent white lines and spots as enamel is dissolved by the acids.
Because
of these problems, it is essential to brush after every meal and snack.
You should also clean between your teeth and around each bracket daily.
Brushing removes the food and plaque that forms on your teeth. When you
brush, use a brush with soft and rounded bristles or a special orthodontic
brush and also, use fluoride toothpaste. Look for the American Dental
Association’s Seal of Acceptance. The Seal is awarded to products that
have proven to be effective.
How should I brush?
A
number of different tooth brushing methods are acceptable. Whichever
method you use, take the time to brush thoroughly. Here’s an example of a
method:
- Place a soft-bristled brush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
- Move the brush back and forth in short strokes with a gentle scrubbing motion.
- Brush the inner, then outer, and finally the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Use the “toe” of the brush to reach the inner front tooth surfaces.
- Brush your tongue to help freshen your breath.
After
brushing, rinse well. Then closely inspect your teeth and braces in a
well-lighted mirror. You may have to brush and rinse several times
before your teeth are clean.
Is flossing possible with braces?
Yes!
But it can be a little tricky while wearing braces. A floss threader
can help you slip the flow between the braces or under the arch-wire.
- Once the floss is in place, hold it between your forefingers, about an inch apart.
- Using a gentle sawing motion, guide the floss between your teeth. Do not snap it in place.
- When the floss reaches the gum-line, cure it against the tooth and gently slide it into the space between the gum and tooth.
- When you feel resistance, gently rub the side of the tooth moving the floss away from the gum.
- Rinse your teeth to wash away food or other particles that you removed with the floss.
Are there other products that can help me clean my mouth?
There
are several dental aids that can be helpful. Specially shaped brushes,
the other interdental cleaners and oral irrigating devices can often
help clean some of those hard-to-reach areas. After brushing prior to
bedtime, an ADA accepted fluoride mouth-rinse should be used for added
protection of the enamel surfaces of the teeth.
Interdental Cleaners
Interdental
cleaning devices with the ADA Seal of Acceptance are specially shaped
brushes or other implements that help remove plaque. They are usually
made of wood, plastic or rubber and shaped to help clean between the
teeth. They can be particularly useful for people who wear braces or who
have trouble handling floss. Discuss the proper use of these devices
with your dentist to avoid injuring your gums.
Oral Irrigators
These
devices create a focused stream of water to remove particles of food
from the surfaces around and between the teeth. They are useful for
cleaning hard-to-reach areas and may reduce gingivitis. They are
especially helpful for people who have braces. Your dentist will tell
you if you can benefit from using this device and provide instruction on
proper use. Look for devices bearing the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Fluoride Mouth Rinse
Fluoride
with the ADA Seal of Acceptance provides extra protection for your
teeth. Is an element that combines with tooth enamel, strengthening it
against decay. Fluoride can even repair microscopic cavities by helping
mineral incorporate into the teeth. You may want to discuss with your
dentist the need for additional fluoride products such as
non-prescription mouth rinses for children in your family over the age
of 6.
Dental
aids can play an important role in cleaning those hard-to-reach areas,
but your diligence in daily cleaning is really the key to good oral
health. By watching your diet, practicing good oral hygiene and
following your dentist instructions, you can be assured that your
orthodontic treatment will be a success. Remember, it is even more
important that you visit your general dentist every six months for
routine cleanings and examination while you have braces.
