Brushing and flossing with braces is an integral part of your oral care routine, yet so often, it’s overlooked or neglected. Braces are already a big commitment, and brushing and flossing can seem like more trouble than it’s worth for some, but not taking proper care of your teeth can cause long-term damage. This blog post will brief the importance of brushing and flossing with braces, from why you should do it to tips on how to make brushing & flossing easier.
Importance Of Brushing & Flossing With Braces
Having braces doesn’t mean you have to put extra effort into brushing your teeth. Brushing with braces is even more critical. Braces can trap food and bacteria, leading to tooth decay and gum disease if you don’t brush and floss regularly. Here are some reasons brushing & flossing with braces is so essential:
– Prevents Tooth Decay –
Trapped food and bacteria will cause plaque buildup, which can lead to cavities in the long run. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste will remove any plaque buildup before it has a chance to cause problems.
– Controls Bad Breath –
Bacteria trapped in your mouth cause bad breath. Make sure you brush at least twice a day (after meals) to eliminate the bad smell caused by these bacteria.
– Prevents Gum Disease –
Not brushing can cause a buildup of bacteria and plaque on your teeth, leading to gum disease if left unchecked. Make sure you brush at least twice daily (morning & evening) to keep the bacteria away.
Tips For Brushing & Flossing With Braces
Brushing with braces can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips for brushing and flossing with braces:
– Use an Electric Toothbrush –
An electric toothbrush is excellent for brushing around braces as it can reach those hard-to-reach spots. It takes less time too!
– Angle Brush Downwards –
Ensure you’re brushing downwards at a 45-degree angle to the braces, as this will help eliminate food and bacteria trapped in between them.
– Floss Daily –
Use an oral irrigator or floss threaders to help get under the brackets and wires. This will help remove any food particles or bacteria that brushing may have missed.
– Use Fluoride Toothpaste –
Fluoride toothpaste can help prevent cavities caused by plaque buildup due to braces.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing is crucial while wearing braces. This not only prevents issues like bad breath, cavities, and gum disease but also ensures a clean and healthy mouth. Dedicate a few minutes to brushing and flossing twice daily – a simple routine that significantly contributes to your oral well-being, even with braces. Contact our team for further information.
FAQs
Q: How often should I brush & floss with braces?
A: You should brush your teeth at least twice daily (morning & evening) and floss once daily. This will help keep your teeth free of plaque buildup caused by food particles and bacteria trapped between brackets and wires.
Q: What type of toothbrush is best for brushing with braces?
A: An electric toothbrush is best for brushing around braces as it can reach those hard-to-reach spots. It also takes less time!
Q: How should I brush & floss with braces?
A: Ensure you’re brushing downwards at a 45-degree angle to the braces, and use an oral irrigator or floss threaders to help get under the brackets and wires. This will help remove any food particles or bacteria that brushing may have missed.
Q: Should I use fluoride toothpaste when brushing with braces?
A: Yes, using fluoride toothpaste can help prevent cavities caused by plaque buildup due to braces.
Q: What type of floss should I use for braces?
A: You should use waxed floss as this will be less likely to shred or break when brushing around the brackets and wires.