If you have braces, you care about your teeth. And, while your orthodontist and dentist have probably told you about the importance of brushing your teeth thoroughly with braces, it’s surprisingly easy to make mistakes despite having the best intentions.
Brushing incorrectly or missing key areas can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, gum disease, or discoloration around your brackets. Of course, you don’t want oral health issues, especially after the time and effort invested in orthodontic treatment. Thankfully, avoiding these problems is simple.
Brushing with Braces
Brushing correctly is always important. But braces create more hiding places for food particles and plaque, potentially leading to:
- Cavities and Decay: Plaque around the brackets can damage tooth enamel, causing cavities.
- Gum Disease: Improper brushing can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and gum disease.
- Discoloration: Discoloration may occur around orthodontic brackets if plaque is left untreated.
Common Brushing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
By paying attention to correct brushing techniques and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your teeth healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Brushing Too Hard
It might seem like brushing with more pressure would clean better, but it can actually harm your teeth, gums, and braces. Overly aggressive brushing can wear down enamel, irritate your gums, and even damage the brackets or wires.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, as it will clean effectively without harming your teeth or braces.
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, using short, circular movements.
- Gently brush your teeth and braces, being careful not to rush or scrub too vigorously.
Gentle brushing is surprisingly effective and much safer for your braces and oral health in the long run.
Not Cleaning Around Brackets and Wires
Food particles and plaque often get trapped around brackets and behind wires. Skipping these crucial areas can lead to decay and unsightly white spots that are only revealed after your braces are removed.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Angle your toothbrush bristles above and below the brackets to reach hidden areas.
- Use an interdental brush, floss pick, or water flosser to clean between the brackets and under the wires.
- Dedicate extra time to brushing the areas directly surrounding your brackets.
While taking extra care to clean these areas may take a few more seconds, the importance of doing so cannot be understated.
Not Brushing for Long Enough
Two minutes can feel like a long time, but it’s the recommended minimum brushing time, especially if you have braces. Many patients rush through their routine, leaving teeth and braces inadequately cleaned.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Aim to brush for at least two minutes during every session by setting a timer.
- Mindfully brush in sections (top teeth, bottom teeth, fronts, and backs) to ensure you’re not missing any surfaces.
Using the Wrong Toothbrush
Worn-out or inappropriate brushes won’t clean effectively, and certain brushes may even damage your tooth enamel or your braces.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Use an electric toothbrush with a small, round head for a more thorough clean.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
Not Brushing Enough
Overbrushing, especially while using a hard-bristled brush or an aggressive technique, can damage teeth. However, during orthodontic treatment, is it okay, and even recommended, to brush more often, particularly if you suspect food is trapped in your braces.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Brush at least twice a day or more frequently, as needed.
- Use gentle pressure and a soft-bristled brush.
- If you can’t brush right away, rinsing your mouth with water can help remove lingering food particles.
Skipping Appointments
Make sure to keep all of your orthodontic appointments throughout your treatment so that we can monitor your progress and adjust your braces as needed. Also, remember that these appointments do not replace your twice-per-year dental check-up and cleaning appointments.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Make dental and orthodontic appointments a non-negotiable in your schedule.
- If you do need to cancel, reschedule your appointment right away.
Protect Your Smile During Braces Treatment
Caring for your teeth while wearing braces may take a little extra effort, but the results are worth it.
Need more tips to improve your oral routine or have questions about braces care? Reach out to us today!
