Keep those braces clean!

Keeping your teeth clean is the key to dental health, but orthodontic brackets can make cleaning more difficult. The tools you use, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, affect how easily and effectively you clean your teeth with braces.

1. Toothbrush

An electric toothbrush has been shown to remove four times more plaque than a manual toothbrush. It’s easier to reach all the grooves in your mouth with an electric toothbrush and the vibrations offer a more thorough brushing. To remove larger food particles and plaque from around the brackets and under the gum tissue, use a water irrigator like Hydrofloss. Water irrigators release a focused stream of water which allows you to effectively “power-wash” your teeth and gums. Not only does this tool help keep your braces clean, but it’s also been shown to improve gum health by reducing inflammation and clearing out bacteria.

2. Toothpaste

The toothpaste you use alongside an electric toothbrush can make a difference in your dental health during orthodontic treatment. Prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste can help keep enamel strong and avoid demineralization – the first stage of tooth decay. Your provider may prescribe other tools to keep your mouth clean and healthy, depending on your particular needs.

3. Floss

Flossing is as important as ever when it comes to braces, but the wire can make flossing difficult. Fortunately, floss threaders and platypus orthodontic flossers are specifically designed to make flossing with braces easier. Platypus flossers are named for their unique shape that works around brackets and offers more control while flossing. Even an electric toothbrush can’t fully clean the space between your teeth, which makes floss an essential tool in keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Shop in Our Dental Store

For all of your orthodontic tool needs, be sure to look at our dental store! Here you can find hand-selected tools and products specific to patients with both traditional bands and brackets and clear aligners. By shopping in our dental store, you can have products shipped directly to your door, saving you the hassle of visiting the store to find these specialty items! If you have trouble locating a specific product, please call our Cary, NC office.

Stop By Our Office

In addition to cleaning your teeth regularly at home, make sure you keep up with regularly scheduled orthodontic appointments to maintain a healthy smile. If you’re near Cary, North Carolina and in need of an appointment, don’t hesitate to call us at 919.460.9665. We would be happy to help answer questions or set up an appointment for you.

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