Maintaining good oral hygiene while in braces is difficult. However, it is imperative to take the extra time to care for your teeth while in braces. Failure to do so results in tooth decay as well as inflammation and problems with gum tissue and sometimes bone loss. Let’s look at some tools available to help you maintain a healthy mouth while in braces.
Electric Toothbrush
No matter how well we brush with a manual toothbrush, electric toothbrushes are clinically proven to more effectively remove plaque. Electric toothbrushes also stimulate gum tissue, keeping it pink and healthy.
Water Flossers
Water flossers are excellent tools to aid cleaning in between teeth, under wires, and around orthodontic brackets. Patients often prefer this tool to flossing since it is difficult to floss under wires and reach posterior teeth.
Interdental Brushes
Interdental brushes, or go between brushes, are helpful in cleaning under wires and around brackets. Like water flossers, interdental brushes tend to be easier to use than floss and threaders.
Floss Threaders
Floss threaders are rigid loops used to thread floss under orthodontic wires. Since orthodontic wires block the interproximal area of the teeth, it is necessary to use a tool to get the floss under the wire so that the patient is able to floss in between.
Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule at the dentist while in braces is also very important in an effort to keep teeth and gums healthy. In most cases, more frequent cleaning appointments are also necessary. Please call Adams and Cheek Dentistry at 919-866-1360 to make an appointment or click here to reach us online.
