How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene With Braces
Fixed braces make it less easy for patients to maintain good oral hygiene. But it’s important to pay special attention when using braces. People with braces are more likely to develop dental problems! Not only is it bad for your oral health, it also complicates dental treatments and can even hinder any progress with your orthodontic treatment.
Dr. Normand Bach, your professional orthodontic clinic in the heart of Montreal, is here to offer some useful advice on how to maintain a good oral hygiene while using braces.
Good Oral Hygiene Brings Great Results
Although removable treatments such as Invisalign greatly improve oral hygiene, not all patients can benefit from them. Traditional braces come with their own set of daily challenges, but discipline is key!
If you aren’t already practising proper oral hygiene, wearing braces tends to magnify the negative effects. Discipline is key: plaque and tartar build-up can lead to gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis, as well as cavities.
Not only does this affect the health of your teeth and gums, but a build-up of plaque around the braces could even lead to white spots. These stains are called decalcification. Part of the enamel gets worn away by the acidity of the plaque. Even if you don’t notice these spots during treatment, they will become evident once the braces are removed!
So, unless you follow strict hygiene habits, your teeth will be straightened, but they certainly won’t look as good as they should! Moreover, decalcification stains can be permanent.
To avoid this, follow the advice of your orthodontist:
- Choose the right toothbrush. This may sound like a trivial point, but a brush with a large head won’t reach all the areas around the braces. Get a toothbrush with a smaller head and soft bristles that won’t damage your gums.
- Use fluoridated toothpaste. Fluoride is the active ingredient in the fight against plaque and cavities, but not all toothpastes have fluoride. Pay close attention to the label when you buy toothpaste.
- Before brushing, remove all loose attachments on your braces, such as rubber bands.
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle when brushing. Clean your braces by circling under and over them to remove any food residue and plaque that may be lodged in. Then, brush each tooth in a circular motion.
- Remember to floss! You’ve probably heard it from your dentist before, but now it’s your orthodontist who’s telling you. Flossing is still essential when you have braces, even though it’s not as easy. Our clinic thinks of everything and provides you with accessories to clean the space between your teeth, even under your braces. A threading segment or a small brush in the shape of a tree might also be recommended.
- After brushing and flossing, rinse your mouth thoroughly to make sure that no food residue remains. We may suggest the use of a mouthwash: feel free to inquire!
Ideally, you should brush your teeth after every meal; at the very least, you should brush twice a day. Take all the time you need to thoroughly clean the surface of each tooth and between teeth, where plaque can also accumulate.
While undergoing orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to visit our clinic regularly for routine appointments and readjustments. But that doesn’t mean you should stop seeing your dentist either! These two dental health professionals work hand in hand to ensure the best results possible for your oral health. Regular cleaning at your dentist’s office help prevent gum disease or cavities.
If you use braces, taking the time to care for your oral hygiene will undoubtedly lead to great results. Don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist or hygienist for more advice!
A Team Dedicated to Your Oral Care
Dr. Normand Bach and his team want you to have the best treatment and experience. They offer a warm welcome, attentive care and take the time to answer all your questions and concerns. Take advantage of personalized support and qualified advice from professionals that actually listen to your needs.
