Dental treatment is just beginning with the installation of a bracket system. Hygiene with braces is an important aspect on which the future result depends. If you neglect cleaning braces, then after treatment you will have to solve problems that could have been avoided. In the article we will tell you how to choose a brush for braces and how to brush your teeth with the system.
The minimum set for the care of braces
Multi—stage oral hygiene is part of the treatment on the orthodontic system. Brushing your teeth with a bracket system is necessary not in the morning and evening, but after each meal. You will need a set of accessories and special tools for proper care. Minimal cosmetic bag for the bracket system:
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Dental V-shaped Brush
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Toothpaste
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Dental Floss
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Floss toothpicks or interdental brushes
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Monopuck Brush
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Pocket mirror
At Olympus Clinics, after installing the structure, our dentists give an orthodontic kit to each patient. It is convenient to take it with you and use it outside the house after each meal.
How to brush your teeth with a bracket system
Start by brushing your teeth along the gum line, holding the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums. After you have cleaned the gum line, hold the toothbrush at an angle down to the top of the braces, and then at an angle up to clean the bottom of the braces.
Make it a habit to practice oral hygiene after each meal. Keep the system care kit handy to ensure that the dentition is clean and shining.
Flossing helps to remove plaque, as well as small food particles stuck in braces or between teeth. If it's difficult for you to use thread, try threading braces or interdental brushes. Try not to put pressure on the dentition and do not move quickly, as you may damage the braces.
Orthodontists' tips on oral hygiene
Specialists of Olympus Clinics recommend choosing products containing fluoride and xylitol when choosing toothpaste. These components help prevent the development of caries, protect against bacteria and microbes. Xylitol-based pastes also leave a pleasant feeling of freshness, which temporarily relieves discomfort when wearing the system.
As for household products, our dentists recommend using salt water as a mouthwash. This method quickly relieves painful sensations that may occur in the first months after the installation of the system, and also helps to destroy bacteria in the oral cavity. Salt water helps to heal ulcers, cuts on the gums or the inside of the cheek. However, to prevent mucosal damage, use special braces care products.
Additional care items: irrigator and wax
Orthodontic wax is an effective product to alleviate the discomfort caused by the installation of metal braces, which can irritate the delicate tissues of the oral cavity. This wax protects the gums, the inside of the lips, cheeks from ulcers and scratches. It is sold in small plastic boxes. It is easy to use: it is enough to tear off a small piece, warm it in the palms of your hands and apply it to the place of irritation, for example, on a lock or a bracket. Orthodontic wax is non-toxic and, in case of accidental ingestion, does not pose a health hazard.
The irrigator is also a useful tool for the care of braces. The dental device is used to clean the gaps between braces and teeth with a directed jet of water, which provides a deeper cleaning.
How to choose a toothbrush for braces
Electric or classical
First you need to decide whether to use an electric or manual toothbrush. Electric ones provide better cleaning. Their rotating mechanism penetrates between the teeth, removing all food particles and plaque. They can also have built-in timers, pressure sensors.
The choice is yours. Electric or manual brush, make sure that the nozzle has soft round bristles so as not to destroy the enamel.
V-shaped
The V-shape makes the bristles longer at the edges and shorter in the middle. This allows access to all areas of the tooth.
Three heads
These nozzles allow for thorough cleaning of all parts of the tooth, including the front, bottom, and back. If you need a toothbrush with three heads, then the electric version will be the best option. It can also be used to remove plaque.
Interdental
It is not intended for regular cleaning. It acts as an additional tool that can be used after a regular brush. The interdental brush penetrates into hard-to-reach places, which makes it ideal for those who wear braces.
Sensitive
They have soft, delicate bristles that help prevent irritation. The softness allows the brush to cover all areas of the tooth and braces.
Food restrictions
Installing the system does not mean a complete change in lifestyle, but some products should be temporarily abandoned in order to protect braces and teeth from damage. Foods that cannot be eaten:
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Popcorn
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Hard or crusty bread
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Lollipops
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Chips
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Hard fruits
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Whole nuts or seeds
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Meat from the bone
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Chewing gum
Safe products:
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Boiled vegetables
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Soft bread
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Yogurt, milk
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Soft fruits
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Dietary meat
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Tofu
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Nut and peanut butter
Visit an orthodontist regularly
While you are wearing braces, you need to visit an orthodontist regularly to adjust the orthodontic design. After a planned orthodontic adjustment, you may feel tightness or slight pain. If the discomfort or pain persists or increases, you should consult a doctor. Also share with your doctor about concerns about your system and any problems with its details.
Sign up for dental alignment on the bracket system at Olympus Clinics! Our experienced dentists also carry out fluoride treatment to provide additional protection for the surface of the teeth from destruction while wearing braces. The orthodontists of Olympus Clinics will keep in touch with you after the installation of the structure, monitor home care, make adjustments.