Braces: how to care for them properly and brush your teeth

Are you embarrassed by an imperfect smile, incorrectly growing teeth or an overbite? Then braces could be for you. They are no longer a cause for embarrassment and can be worn by anyone who’s looking to improve their smile, at any age. 

Invest in yourself

Don’t just buy braces blindly online, but instead check with your dentist, who will find the best ones for you. This is orthodontics and orthodontists. Of course, wearing braces will feel unnatural at first, and your wallet may take a hit, but there is no better investment than in your own health. Braces are occasionally provided to adults for free on the NHS, but usually you have to pay to go private.

What you might not know about braces.

• there are three types: fixed, removable and plastic; your dentist or orthodontist can help you choose
• most adults wear braces for a period of 18 to 30 months
• then most move on to removable braces which attach to the tissue around the teeth
• braces don’t hurt, but wearing and adjusting them can cause some discomfort

How do you care for your teeth with braces?

Consistency and thoroughness are key when cleaning teeth with braces. Braces can make dental hygiene a bit harder, incorrect care increases the risk of tooth decay, and stains on teeth and tartar build up.

Fortunately, there is a wide range of tools available on the market to help you clean your teeth properly. Your braces and the area around them can easily become home to bacteria from plaque and particles of food, meaning you should take great care when brushing and follow the advice of your dentist and dental hygienist.

How should you brush teeth with braces?

You should brush the length of your teeth carefully; do each tooth separately, not forgetting the inner part of the tooth. You can use a manual or electric toothbrush with fibres suitable for cleaning braces. Finish cleaning your teeth with a single-tuft toothbrush and interdental brushes. Also use dental floss (some are designed specifically for teeth with braces). It is advised to brush teeth with braces after every meal. 

Rinse your mouth carefully and check in the mirror to make sure that is looks clean. A great tool for cleaning teeth with braces is a water flosser; the stream of water helps to reach all parts of your mouth. There are also special tablets and solutions which can detect plaque. They can help you find out where you really need to clean.

Particular attention needs to be paid to oral hygiene when you have a fixed brace, since the build-up of plaque is higher with this kind of brace. However, consistent care always pays off, especially if you use designated toothpastes and mouthwash. If you have removable braces, clean them using special cleaning tablets.

So now you know how to look after teeth with braces, making the road to a dazzling smile and healthy teeth a little easier.