When you first get braces, the idea of brushing your teeth while wearing them can seem a bit impossible. How can you maneuver around the brackets? How can you make sure you didn’t get anything trapped in them? And, what if you break something?
Truth is, brushing is so important when you have braces - which means you have to get over your fear quickly.
Rinsing Your Mouth
First thing’s first - rinse your mouth. You only need to use water for this one. This simple step will help free many of the particles that are lodged in the crevices throughout. Making this a habit throughout the day - if you eat and can’t brush - can make a difference in your overall oral hygiene.
Brushing Your Teeth
As you gather your toothbrush and toothpaste, the first place you want to start brushing is your gum line. Go throughout your mouth brushing at a 45-degree angle to stimulate the gums. Food particles and bacteria can collect in this area and, if left alone, can wreak havoc in your mouth. Whatever you do, don’t use force as you can harm your gum. Just a soft, gentle brush of the front and back.
Focus on the Brackets
Your brackets are probably playing a role in making you nervous to brush with braces. And, it is understandable. But it is not as tough as it seems.
Gently move throughout your mouth focusing on one bracket at a time. You want to remove as much built-up debris as possible. Focus on the top and then move to the bottom. Don’t pull the brackets or the wires and don’t try to rush. Without being careful, you can find yourself with damaged braces or, worse - a damaged tooth.
Invest in a Waterpik
Just like rinsing and brushing, flossing is a very important part of your daily oral care. But this is where you need to be extra careful in maneuvering the floss around your braces. Your dental hygienist should be able to show you the best techniques for doing this. What you don’t want to do is find yourself getting overwhelmed or too busy to take the time to floss.
If you are interested in making things easier for yourself, invest in a waterpik. This is like flossing, but with water, so it can remove plaque from hard-to-reach places - and it does so without compromising your braces. Keep in mind that water flossers can be a bit tricky to use at first if you aren’t used to them so give yourself some time to practice.
Waterpiks are great tools for those with braces. Just remember that it replaces flossing, but not brushing.
Summary of Your Oral Care Routine
So, how do you brush your teeth with braces? Carefully.
Brush your teeth at least twice each day. Floss at least once per day. And rinse your mouth with water, if possible, after every time you eat.
The better you care for your braces while you have them, the better they will care for you!
Braces at Total Dental Care
Getting braces is the first step to achieving a beautiful smile you can be proud of. If you are interested in learning more, reach out to Total Dental Care at 240-813-9111. Or request an appointment online.
We look forward to giving you a relaxed, caring, and unforgettable dental experience.