Brushing & Flossing
It is more important than ever to brush and floss regularly when you have braces and other orthodontic appliances so that the teeth and gums remain healthy during orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning. Adults who have a history of gum disease should also see a periodontist during orthodontic treatment. Watch the video below on the proper care of braces during orthodontic treatment.
Must-Have Tools For A Healthy Mouth
It is imperative to keep your orthodontic appliances and your teeth and gums clean during orthodontic treatment. Here are some “tools of the trade” Resler Orthodontics recommends.
Interdental Toothbrush
A Proxabrush is an interdental (between the teeth) toothbrush that you may use to clean underneath and around your wires and braces. Use the Proxabrush gently to avoid damaging your wires. The Proxabrush will help you clean your braces and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Antibacterial Mouthwash
Although there is NO substitute for proper brushing, Peroxyl, a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouth rinse, may help reduce inflammation to your gums and cheeks. Peroxyl helps to prevent infection and decrease irritation that may develop from your braces. Rinse your mouth with two teaspoons of Peroxyl (half a capful) for one minute, and then spit it out. You may use Peroxyl up to four times daily, following your schedule for brushing: after meals (or after school) and before bed. Just like using peroxide for a scrape on your skin, Peroxyl helps the inside of your mouth heal. Peroxyl can be used for general irritation caused by your braces as well as for canker sores, cheek bites, and other minor temporary injuries to the gums.
Topical Fluoride
Pro-Sys is an anti-cavity fluoride toothpaste that helps prevent tooth decay, orthodontic decalcification, and hypersensitivity while you are wearing braces. It does so by killing bacteria and also by replacing minerals in tooth enamel that have been lost due to exposure to harmful acids. Pro-Sys is not used as a toothpaste replacement for your daily brushing and flossing routine. Place a small strip of Pro-Sys on a toothbrush and brush thoroughly for at least 2 minutes. It is important for the active ingredient in Pro-Sys to stay on your teeth for 30 minutes, so do not wash it away by eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after brushing with the product.
Anticavity Toothpaste
With regular brushing, Plaque HD will help fight cavities, freshen breath and remove plaque that can build up on teeth and around gums better than using conventional toothpaste. Put a strip of Plaque HD on your toothbrush and brush teeth thoroughly, preferably after each meal or at least twice a day.