Braces require daily TLC. That means plenty of important tools that simplify and streamline cleaning and maintenance efforts, so the hardware remains in good shape and your tooth enamel does too. If you’re new to braces, your orthodontist will recommend many products that can help you brush and floss multiple times a day. Here are just some of the must-haves.
1. Electric Toothbrush
It takes a lot of work to get in and around all the brackets and wires on your teeth. When you use an electric toothbrush, you’re far more likely to reach the difficult areas and scrub away bacteria and food build-up. Remember to change out the brush head about every three months – working on braces, the bristles wear out much faster than just tending to teeth. For kids with early orthodontics, some electric toothbrushes are accompanied by a fun app that counts down two minutes and guides them to brush every tooth along the way.
2. Waterpik Flosser
Flossing your teeth with braces is a challenge and a half, even if you have the threader floss designed to go behind and in between braces. Using a waterpik flosser simplifies this important task tremendously, blasting out a powerful jet of water that removes debris and build-up from in between the teeth, around brackets and wires, and along the gums and gumline. Even if you’re an Invisalign wearer, this is a great tool to keep your oral health in tip-top shape during orthodontic treatment.
3. Interdental Brush
Small, easy to put in your pocket or bag, and reusable, interdental brushes are the best on-the-go tool around for tending to braces. This tiny device can be inserted in and around the braces to reach all the tough spots so you can clean your teeth decently even if you’re not at home with all your other brushing tools. Every brush has its own little cap so it can be used several times before it needs to be discarded.
4. Mouthwash
Top off every brushing and flossing with a capful of mouthwash, which is available in a variety of flavors and concentrations to suit your preferences. This product kills the bacteria that’s left behind after brushing and finishes off your teeth cleaning by washing away the food particles and plaque that remain on your hardware. It’s not easy to brush well every morning and every night, especially when your teeth are feeling sore or sensitive. Mouthwash helps pick up the slack.
5. Orthodontic Wax
You won’t find any wearer of conventional metal braces who hasn’t given thanks for orthodontic wax. Braces are smaller than ever and far less cumbersome for the wearer, but they are still made of metal and the location and shape of the brackets is known to rub against the lips and cheeks, causing irritation. A ball of orthodontic wax pressed onto the problematic bracket provides immediate relief by creating a barrier between soft tissues and braces. It can even be worn overnight.
Get Help with Your Braces Care
Whatever questions or concerns you have about taking care of your braces or Invisalign, the team at Lawrenceville Orthodontists is ready to make recommendations and help you find the tools that work best for you. Contact Drs. Roberts & de Marsche in Lawrenceville, NJ, to schedule a consultation.