Good reflexes for brushing your teeth with braces

During orthodontic treatment, tooth brushing must be meticulous. Which toothbrush to use? Which interdental brushes? How often? We answer all your questions.

The importance of effective brushing

Bacteria are found naturally throughout our bodies and also in our mouths. They will transform the sugar that we consume into acids which, in the long run, will weaken the teeth with the appearance of cavities but also possible inflammation of the gums (gingivitis).

When we wear braces, the food we eat is more likely to get stuck, hence the importance of methodical and effective brushing which guarantees good dental hygiene. Although a reduced sugar diet is necessary, the quality of brushing is essential.

Let’s get into good habits

Here is brushing your teeth with an appliance stuck to your teeth:

• Brushing twice a day minimum: after breakfast and before bed. Ideally plan to brush your teeth after lunch even if you are outside. Avoid snacking between meals.
• Brushing for a minimum of 2 minutes is essential, passing carefully over all the teeth and checking that the brush passes under the wire and paying particular attention to the gum line. If the gums start to bleed, this certainly means that the usual brushing was not satisfactory and that brushing will need to be continued so that this bleeding disappears in the future.
• A small brush, easy to handle and with soft bristles will ensure greater efficiency. An electric toothbrush allows maximum efficiency.
• Using a brush at the end of your usual brushing is a very good addition for better oral hygiene. Orthodontic treatment for better oral hygiene? When teeth are not perfectly aligned, brushing cannot be optimal. After orthodontic treatment, brushing will become more effective provided you respect the habits seen above, even after removing the appliance.