Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential, especially if you have braces. With brackets and wires making it harder to keep your smile clean, it’s essential to take extra care to prevent oral health issues like plaque buildup and gum disease. For example, using an interdental toothbrush to clean your teeth and brackets after every meal can help you maintain your oral hygiene. However, it can be challenging to know what steps to take on your own, making it vital to check in with your orthodontist often.
At Clemente Orthodontics, we provide guidance to help you keep your teeth healthy throughout your treatment journey. Our experienced team has decades of service in New York and New Jersey, and we ensure that every patient receives personalized care to protect their smile. Let us help you achieve your best results with our advanced orthodontic techniques and dedicated support.
How to Maintain Oral Hygiene with Braces?
To maintain oral hygiene with braces, brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Floss daily with a floss threader or water flosser. Avoid sticky, hard foods that can damage braces. Rinse with water or mouthwash when brushing isn’t possible, and schedule regular dental check-ups
Brush After Every Meal
Brushing after each meal is key to removing food particles and plaque that can get stuck around your braces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and take your time to carefully brush around each bracket and wire.
Use an Interdental Brush
An interdental brush is designed to clean between braces and teeth in places that a regular toothbrush can’t reach. Use this tool daily to remove food debris and plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
Floss Daily with Floss Threaders
Flossing may be more difficult with braces, but it’s crucial for keeping the spaces between your teeth clean. A floss threader can help you get the floss underneath the wires of your braces, allowing you to clean between your teeth more effectively.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Using an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup and strengthen your enamel. Rinse your mouth after brushing and flossing to ensure no residue is left behind.
Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods
Gummy and crunchy foods can get caught in your braces or even damage the wires and brackets. Try to avoid foods like chewing gum, caramels, popcorn, and hard candies to prevent any issues.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth hydrated, which is essential for good oral hygiene. Water also helps neutralize acids that can lead to tooth decay.
Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Even though you’re seeing your orthodontist regularly, don’t forget to visit your dentist for routine cleanings. Professional cleanings are important for removing plaque and tartar buildup that can’t be addressed through brushing and flossing alone.
Use Orthodontic Wax for Comfort
Sometimes, braces can irritate the inside of your mouth. Using orthodontic wax on any rough edges can help protect your gums and cheeks, reducing the risk of sores and helping you maintain comfort.
Brush Your Tongue and Gums
Don’t forget to brush your tongue and gently massage your gums while brushing. This helps remove bacteria and keeps your whole mouth clean, which is important for preventing bacteria growth and gum disease.
Carry a Travel Oral Hygiene Kit
Keep a small kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and interdental brushes in your bag when you’re on the go. This way, you can clean your teeth after meals, even when you’re not at home.
Trust Clemente Orthodontics for Your Orthodontic Care
Maintaining oral hygiene while wearing braces can be challenging, but with the right guidance and support, you can protect your teeth and achieve a healthy, confident smile. At Clemente Orthodontics, we understand that each patient’s journey is unique, and we are here to ensure your orthodontic experience is both smooth and successful. Our multigenerational team has proudly served New York and New Jersey for decades, offering personalized care designed to meet your specific needs.
If you need expert advice on improving your oral hygiene routine or are ready to start your orthodontic treatment, we’re here to help. Call us today at New City: (845) 638-6646, Woodcliff Lake: (201) 484-0600, or Ridgewood: (201) 447-2888. You can also reach out through our contact form to schedule your consultation.
Medically reviewed by:
The Orthodontic Team at Clemente Orthodontics
November 12, 2024
At Clemente Orthodontics our expert dental team takes great care in providing orthodontic treatment and Invisalign solutions for our patients.
