When wearing orthodontic braces, oral hygiene takes more time and care than regular cleaning. Although it involves an additional effort, it is worth it, as it prevents the appearance of ailments that can compromise the entire treatment.
Maintaining good oral hygiene with orthodontic braces is never easy . Cleaning the oral cavity is essential, both for the success of the treatment and for the prevention of ailments such as caries, gingivitis, etc.
The individual with orthodontic braces, especially if fixed, will have to commit to dedicating more time to oral hygiene and use all the tools necessary for the purpose.
To ensure proper oral hygiene with orthodontic appliances, in reality, no exceptional measures are necessary. It is enough to take simple actions which, while taking more time, prevent the emergence of future problems . Below we present seven habits for perfect oral hygiene during an orthodontic treatment.
7 habits for perfect oral hygiene with orthodontic appliances
The most important measure for proper oral hygiene in orthodontics is to brush your teeth , at least three times a day . However, it is also advisable to brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking a sugary drink.
The most important time to spend more time cleaning your teeth is in the evening, before going to sleep. It is best to brush each tooth separately, gently on both sides and in the interdental spaces. This is the main measure to combat bacterial plaque.
Cleaning your teeth is one of the most important oral hygiene habits. In the case of an appliance, it is recommended to do it immediately after each meal.
2. The toothbrush
There are toothbrushes affixed to ensure perfect hygiene with the orthodontic appliance. They have a “V” shape, which facilitates cleaning around the brackets . However, several experts believe that the ideal is to use an electric toothbrush.
In this sense, the best are the rechargeable electric toothbrushes with rotating-oscillating technology. You will have to choose a specific head for orthodontics. The ideal is a toothbrush with a pressure sensor. This will avoid damaging the brackets .
3. The right toothpaste for oral hygiene with orthodontic appliances
As a rule, it is recommended to use a fluorinated toothpaste which increases the tooth’s resistance against caries . Abrasive toothpastes are not recommended, as they tend to damage tooth enamel and sometimes damage brackets as well .
In case of problems such as bad breath or gingivitis, it is preferable to ask your dentist for advice on the type of toothpaste to use. However, remember that toothpaste is just an add-on, the most important aspect being the way you brush your teeth.
4. The use of dental floss
Yes, you should really use dental floss. No matter how carefully you brush your teeth, in the case of orthodontic braces, areas will always escape. Dental floss allows us to reach the interdental spaces better , so as to obtain deep oral hygiene.
The bracket tend to retain traces of food between the teeth and it is easy not to notice. The ideal is to pass the waxed dental floss. You will have to move it gently from top to bottom, then focus on the interdental spaces.
Dental floss helps remove food debris that gets stuck between teeth and braces.
5. The importance of the plaque detector for oral hygiene with orthodontic appliances
The bacterial plaque detector is useful for identifying areas where there are minimal food residues. You cannot rely solely on the toothbrush , let alone in cases of fixed orthodontics, where there are areas that are difficult to access or easy to overlook.
It should be used after brushing your teeth. It not only indicates the areas where you need to brush again, but also indicates the points where proper oral hygiene is not achieved.
6. The mouthwash
Rinsing with mouthwash is essential in the case of orthodontic appliances. They have to be done every time we finish brushing our teeth. The main function of the mouthwash is to eliminate bacteria and other potentially harmful microorganisms.
There are also specific mouthwashes with substances that do not damage the orthodontic appliance. In any case, rinses with a fluoridated mouthwash are ideal for protecting tooth enamel.
The use of mouthwash is excellent in oral hygiene with orthodontic appliances. In addition, it helps eliminate bacteria.
7. The use of the dental water jet
The dental water jet is an ideal accessory to maintain good oral hygiene in case of braces . Let’s not forget, in fact, that often, especially in the presence of brackets , food remains accumulate that go unnoticed.
The water jet ensures a pulsating water flow that reaches all corners of the oral cavity . They are devices absolutely indicated for those who need special attention in oral hygiene . There are different types on the market, ranging from the simplest to those with more sophisticated performance.
In conclusion
It is imperative to strengthen oral hygiene habits when undergoing orthodontic treatment. It is therefore advisable to brush your teeth with greater care, choose suitable toothbrushes and use other accessories such as dental floss and mouthwash. Without forgetting the regular check-ups at the dentist.
