Thursday, January 28, 2010

How to Brush Your Teeth in Orthodontic Dental Braces

Tijuana Cosmetic Dentist


When you first get braces, it can be confusing to understand how to properly brush and floss your teeth. It is extremely important that you brush several times per day, and floss at least once per day, to prevent cavities and periodontal disease.
Start by rinsing with water a couple of times to dislodge food particles that are stuck in your braces. You can also use a rubber-tipped gum massager, a dental pick, or a small spiral brush to dislodge food that is stuck in your brackets. Rinse again. Now you can use a small amount of toothpaste and brush your teeth.
It is best to use circular, vibrating motions around the gum line. Angle your toothbrush above and below the brackets. Scrub each surface of every tooth with 10 strokes of the toothbrush. This should take several minutes. Be as thorough as possible. Don't forget to also clean the surfaces of the molars and to also brush your tongue!
Electric toothbrushes, such as those made by Sonicare and Oral-B are great to use with braces. They are convenient and can help to keep your teeth extremely clean. The type of toothbrush you use is less important than the frequency of your brushing. In other words, brush often, no matter what type of toothbrush you own!
If you use a regular non-electric toothbrush, try to find an orthodontic toothbrush. An orthodontic toothbrush is different from a regular toothbrush, because its bristles are shaped into a "V" so that they clean braced teeth more efficiently. Orthodontic toothbrushes are usually not available in local stores, but you can find them on the web at the DentaKit website and other web retailers. Your orthodontist may also be able to give you a couple of orthodontic toothbrushes.
You may be tempted to use a whitening toothpaste, but resist the urge. It's best not to use a whitening toothpaste until after your braces come off. If you use a whitening toothpaste on a daily basis, the teeth underneath the brackets may not be as white as the rest of your teeth when your braces come off. Use a regular non-whitening fluoride toothpaste and you'll be fine.
How many times per day should you brush your teeth when you have braces? As many times as you can, preferable after every meal or snack. If you can't brush, swish your mouth with some water to help clear away food particles. Stay away from sugary snacks and sugary drinks. If you must have sugary snacks or drinks, brush your teeth afterward or swish your mouth with water.
If you follow this advice, your teeth and gums will stay healthy while you are in braces. And when the braces come off, your teeth will be even more beautiful.
DentaKit.com, at http://www.dentakit.com, carries a wide variety of orthodontic supplies for braces, including dental wax, braces lip protectors, orthodontic toothbrushes, floss threaders, retainer cleaners such as Retainer Brite and SonicBrite, and retainer cases.

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