The Importance of Dental Care for People with Braces

Braces wearers are more prone to common dental issues like gingivitis, tartar, and demineralization because the hardware in their mouths makes it more difficult to get their teeth completely clean.  This increased vulnerability to dental problems means anyone wearing braces, especially teens, needs to be extra vigilant in their oral hygiene routines.

Because some teenager's teeth are newly formed, they have less resistance to tooth decay, not to mention changing hormone levels, which can effect oral health. Biofilm, a bacterial layer that collects daily on tooth surfaces can be a major cause of dental disease. This biofilm also collects on braces and other orthodontic appliances, so it's important to keep the entire mouth and everything in it clean. Braces wearers typically have two to three times more biofilm as someone without braces.

Because biofilm is a direct link to tooth decay and gum disease, managing it while wearing braces is crucial. Maintaining proper oral health while wearing braces should include a daily routine of brushing, cleaning between teeth, fluoride, and mouth rinse.

Brushing

1.  Let's start with brushing. It may seem like a no-brainer, but there is a proper way to brush teeth  while wearing braces.  
2.  Hold the brush parallel to the floor against the side of your teeth. Guide the power brush head  from tooth to tooth, following the natural curve of your teeth and gums.
3.  Hold the brush in place on each tooth for a few seconds before moving on to the next tooth.  With an electric brush, you don't have to press hard or scrub. Just let the brush do all the work  for you.
4.  Don't forget to brush the insides of teeth, the tops of teeth, and the back of your mouth behind  your back molars.
5.  Clean brackets by angling the brush head against them. Make sure the brush also cleans under  the wires.

Flossing

Cleaning between the teeth is crucial for braces wearers to have healthy, less swollen gums. Floss, threaders, small interdental brushes, or oral irrigation sprayers can help braces wearers keep their teeth and  orthodontia devices clean.

Fluoride

Using toothpastes that contain fluoride are vital for reducing and preventing decay and tooth enamel loss for those wearing braces. In some cases, your dentist may want to apply fluoride to prevent and treat decalcification.

Mouthrinses

Antibacterial and fluoride mouthrinses can help reduce biofilm and gingivitis in braces wearers. There are over-the-counter and prescription products available.

Last but not least, always be sure to consult with your orthodontist and dentist on the best care routine for your situation, and be sure to follow their instructions thoroughly.