Engaging in brushing of your teeth is a major step that helps you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Even though it seems simple, certain changes need to be made regarding your daily activities, especially when it comes to taking care of your oral health. One of the questions we get asked most often from our patients is about the type of toothbrush for braces that would be most ideal for people wearing braces.
It can be quite difficult brushing your teeth while having braces on. The orthodontics have managed to create more sites for debris and plaque formation, and brushing your teeth the way you used to is not as effective as before.
In this guide, we will discuss some of these issues and what you need to think of when purchasing a toothbrush as you undertake orthodontics to help you end up having a healthy and bright smile. Make the invisible braces cost in Oklahoma City worthwhile and look after your oral health, and contact Reflections Dental Care for tailored advice!
Challenges of Brushing with Braces
There are various problems that you will have to contend with when you are brushing your teeth while wearing orthodontic braces. Food can get trapped between all that equipment, and if it is not removed, it can cause cavities, gum disease, and other problems that you can think of, and some that you may not be aware of as well, all because of improper brushing techniques.
It’s going to take time just to get all of your teeth clean because you will not just be brushing them back and forth, but above and below each fixing too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
With all that we know as dental professionals, some of the most common mistakes people have made when they have just gotten their braces on are the following. First, they brush too hard on their teeth. Even though this might seem like you’re getting a superior clean, this can be very bad for your orthodontic appliances and gums.
Secondly, one of the most common problems that people have is that they don’t give themselves enough time brushing their teeth. Thirty seconds is simply not enough, and it is essential that you give yourself at least two minutes, morning and nighttime, brushing around all of your orthodontic appliances.
What’s more, one of the most common mistakes that people have made is that they have forgotten that they need to switch their toothbrush regularly enough. A good toothbrush for braces that has been used for too long is no good, and it is essential that you switch it every three or four months, or if it is worn down, sooner than that.
How to Choose the Right Toothbrush
What is one supposed to look for in a toothbrush, anyway? First and foremost, the best toothbrush for braces generally has soft bristles. It is always essential that when we purchase a toothbrush, we go for one that has soft bristles because, despite being very gentle on one’s gums and orthodontic appliances, it is still very efficient at removing plaque.
A toothbrush with a small head is much easier to work around orthodontics, and brushing small areas can be a piece of cake this way. There are orthodontic toothbrushes available that have ‘V’-shaped bristles that are cut just right so that they can easily be maneuvered around orthodontics, or just a simple soft one would be adequate, provided that you know how to use it, whether it is manual or electric.
Your Path to a Healthy Smile
Choosing an appropriate brushing aid is one of the simplest and most crucial parts of oral care when you have braces on your teeth. By selecting a soft toothbrush that has a small head, you can easily avoid any problems associated with your dental care and remove the bacterial formation called ‘plaque’ on your teeth and gums.
If you strictly adhere to these guidelines, you can be assured that, once your braces have been removed, you will have a beautiful and healthy smile!