Many teens are forced to put braces in their life, as do many adults and children! It's not the end of the world, but brushing your teeth safely can take a long time if you want to keep them clean under braces. The first few times it may even take 5-10 minutes to brush your teeth, floss, and do whatever needs to be done for proper oral hygiene! Read this guide to find out how to clean your teeth with your new braces!
Steps
Step 1. Get a good toothbrush
Your orthodontist can recommend one that suits your needs. Otherwise, get a regular (non-electric) one or ask your doctor. Other people who wear braces cannot give you the right information about the right toothbrush for you. You should get a special one with a fine, fluted tip (ask your orthodontist).
Step 2. Put the toothpaste on the toothbrush as normal
Start brushing your teeth with small circular motions. Start at the front, move to the back, and finally clean the chewing surface. If your orthodontist recommends a different method, follow their recommendations.
Step 3. While cleaning, place the toothbrush in a corner under the hooks of the appliance
Then slowly move it with horizontal and vertical movements. This way you can get under the threads and over the teeth.
Step 4. Continue brushing until each tooth (front, back and chewing surface) is thoroughly cleaned
Spit the toothpaste into the sink.
Step 5. Wash your mouth and check your teeth
Are they really dirty or do they look ugly? Then you probably don't wash them well enough.
Step 6. Get the floss
Most orthodontists provide floss with sturdy ends to make it easier to thread under the appliance.
Step 7. Run the floss under the appliance, slowly move it up and down, like regular dental floss
Carry out the procedure for each tooth. This can take a long time.
Step 8. When you're done, check between your teeth
Is there still any food residue? In this case, you probably haven't used floss properly.
Step 9. Check to see if you feel any loose brackets or wires or if you have blisters in your mouth
If your orthodontist has provided you with a pipe cleaner (somewhat reminiscent of the tip of the Christmas tree), pass it between each tooth.
Step 10. Rinse with mouthwash to freshen your mouth
Step 11. Check your teeth to make sure they are all clean and repeat all procedures as necessary
Advice
- Some doctors may give you small, wax-like strips to apply to your teeth if part of the appliance rubs against your gum. Make sure you follow this procedure before brushing your teeth.
- If you find flossing to be a nuisance and you don't have enough time, ask your orthodontist about dental water jets.
- If you're in school and don't have time to brush your teeth and floss between classes, at least rinse your mouth thoroughly and use the brush, the kind of Christmas tree your orthodontist gave you (which is actually similar to a portable toothbrush, but works well between the teeth).
- Brush your teeth and floss after each meal, in the morning and evening. If you wish, you can floss after breakfast, but not before.
- Always use mouthwash after brushing your teeth.
- If you're short on time, make sure you at least rinse with mouthwash and floss.
Warnings
- If you have pain / bleeding in your mouth due to the appliance, contact your dentist.
- If it seems to you that the appliance does not fit perfectly in your mouth, consult your orthodontist.
