When this happens, gum disease would eventually take its toll on your remaining teeth. It is therefore extremely important to know about the tools you’ll need and the correct procedures you should observe for dental braces care. Doing so will help you keep your natural teeth longer and prevent gum diseases that may exacerbate your dental problems.
Tackling Metal Braces
If your dental condition was such that metal braces were required, then you have to take note of a few tips on dental braces care. Brushing your teeth would now take on a new different meaning – and it won’t be easy, as it would involve a lot of extra tools and of course, a longer period of time.
It also won’t be enough to brush and floss your teeth twice a day, because metal braces require dental braces care after each meal and snack. There is always the possibility that food particles would get lodged in some cranny between the braces and your teeth, and it’s really important to dislodge those before they wreak havoc to your teeth and gums.
Special Tools
The implement you would normally use is an angled toothbrush to be able to reach the corners under the braces. Many brace wearers prefer electric toothbrushes for dental braces care for two primary reasons: One, because it takes such a long time to clean the teeth that electric toothbrushes are the most logical choice to keep from getting exhausted while cleaning; and two, because these brushes feature a rotary movement which is best for cleaning braces.
Aside from the toothbrush, you’ll also need a floss threader, of course, plus stimudents, dental picks, or other interdental devices. These tools work well under the brackets and help dislodge food particles that refuse to come off during brushing.
A waterpik can also be used to reach those areas that toothbrushes and dental picks can’t. After a waterpik blast, remember to rinse your mouth thoroughly.
Dental wax is also an important element in dental braces care. It provides soothing relief to the sensitive inner cheek and the lips which are often chafed by the braces rubbing against them. Dental wax is thus applied on the surface of the brackets to minimize the soreness. These cost less than $2 for 5 strips but are quite necessary for pain relief, and some even come in a refreshing mint flavor.
If you’re wearing Invisalign invisible Braces, though, you won’t have as much problems. Your dental braces care would only involve avoiding eating or drinking beverages other than water with them on and cleaning your clear braces thoroughly before putting them back on.
Dental braces care finally involves regular visits to your dentist every 3-6 months for a more thorough cleaning – that is, let the professional take care of whatever it is you’ve missed.