Getting braces is a significant step toward improving your oral health, hygiene, and aesthetics. To achieve the best results, however, the journey requires proper care and consistent attention to daily habits. Braces introduce new surfaces and small spaces where food particles and plaque can easily accumulate. This makes oral hygiene more challenging but also more essential. With the right routine and guidance from a trusted family orthodontist in Champaign, you can protect your teeth, gums, and braces while ensuring the healthiest and most beautiful outcome for your smile.
Brushing Techniques for Braces
The way you brush your teeth will change after installing braces. The general rule of brushing twice daily may no longer be enough. As stated, braces introduce new surfaces and spaces where food particles and plaque can accumulate. Therefore, you need to brush after every meal and snack to clean all areas thoroughly.
You also can't rely on a standard toothbrush. Instead, use a flat, soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for braces. These brushes are shaped to clean around brackets and wires more effectively, helping you reach areas that a regular toothbrush might miss. If you live in Monticello or Champaign, Dr. Mark B. Huls can help you choose the right tools and demonstrate proper brushing techniques.
Use fluoride toothpaste because it helps strengthen the tooth enamel and also prevents cavities. Brush for at least five minutes each session, taking time to carefully clean every surface of your tech, brackets, and wires.
Pro tips for brushing with braces include:
- Rinse your mouth first to loosen food particles.
- Divide your mouth into four sections.
- Brush gently but thoroughly at a 45° angle.
- Replace your toothbrush every two months.
Flossing With Braces
Flossing is just as important as brushing your braces. While brushing removes plaque and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth and around brackets, flossing targets the tight spaces between teeth and under the gumline; essentially, areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. Neglecting flossing can lead to gum inflammation, cavities, and long-term oral health issues.
If your child also has braces, consult a kids' orthodontist in Monticello for guidance. They can demonstrate proper flossing techniques and recommend tools that make the process easier for children.
Floss properly by starting at the base of each tooth and moving upward. Gently slide the floss beneath the wire and around the tooth using a C-shaped motion. This technique allows the floss to hug the tooth surface and reach just below the gumline, where plaque often hides. Repeat the process for each tooth, ensuring you clean both sides before moving to the next space.
Use Mouthwash
Your family orthodontist in Champaign will advise you to incorporate antibacterial mouthwash into your daily routine. Mouthwash helps reduce plaque buildup, fight bacteria, and keep your gums healthy. It also reaches areas that brushing and flossing may miss, offering an extra layer of protection.
The best time to rinse with mouthwash is at night after meals. Saliva production decreases during sleep, which allows bacteria to thrive and increases the risk of plaque and decay. Nighttime rinsing also gives the fluoride in mouthwash more time to strengthen enamel and protect your teeth while you rest.
Consult Huls Orthodontics for Professional Help
If you are looking for family or kids' orthodontics in Monticello, Huls Orthodontics is a trusted choice. We provide personalized treatment, guiding patients through every step of their orthodontic journey. We also offer comprehensive after-care, such as clear aligners, to help maintain results and ensure long-term oral health. Call us today to book an appointment.