How to Keep Your Teeth with Braces Clean

Although teeth braces in Medford will give you a straighter and more beautiful smile, they also make brushing and flossing more difficult for you. However, without proper tooth care, this orthodontic treatment increases the risk of plaque buildup. Luckily, we’ve rounded up a few tips to help you keep your teeth and braces clean, healthy, and bright. 

Tips for Cleaning Your Teeth with Braces

Use a Soft-bristled Toothbrush

Cleaning your teeth with a toothbrush that comes with softer bristles will help you avoid irritating your gums. If you want to keep your teeth with braces in tiptop shape, be sure to clean the top part of your teeth between your brackets and gums.  

Dental professionals recommend directing the bristles to touch the gums to ensure proper cleaning of your tooth enamel. While you’re at it, you’ll want to handle the brush at a 45-degree angle toward your gums. 

Brush Your Teeth After Each Meal

Since brace wires are notorious for catching food particles, you’ll want to prevent plaque by brushing after every meal. For this reason, it’s best to keep a travel toothbrush in handy. However, if you don’t have one, be sure to rinse your mouth with water for about 30 seconds.

If you enjoy acidic foods such as oranges or sports drinks, you should wait around 30 minutes to an hour before brushing your teeth. Brushing immediately after consuming these foods will soften your tooth enamel.

Avoid Using Too Much Toothpaste

Using too much toothpaste will create a foam that can make it more difficult for you to see food debris and plaque. The best way to clean between wires and around the brackets is to start brushing with only a wet toothbrush. Next, add a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush your teeth for at least two minutes.

Use a Floss Threader or a Water Flosser

Flossing can make tooth care in braces a little tricky. Thankfully, it’s easier to guide the floss through the wire if you tie it to a threader. Another quick and easy way to floss is to use a water flosser.

Do You Need Teeth Braces in Medford?

At Northwoods Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you restore your confidence in your smile. Get in touch with us today to make an appointment.