Brushing While Having Orthodontic Treatment

Brushing While Having Orthodontic Treatment

Patients who visit our dental practice in Silver Spring, MD for orthodontic treatment are encouraged to not ignore the importance of brushing and oral health. Not only is brushing important for preventing tooth decay and keeping breath fresh, but food particles can get stuck in between the brackets and wires, which puts our orthodontics patients at an even higher risk for plaque and gum disease. Brushing while having ortho treatment, such as braces, is easy to do once patients learn the proper technique.

 

We ask any patient getting orthodontics treatment to continue brushing their teeth multiple times a day, using a toothbrush that has soft bristles. Their regular fluoride toothpaste is acceptable for brushing over and around braces, though they need to hold it at an angle in order to get around the brackets and remove all of the food particles. During orthodontic treatment, our dentist, Dr. David Bishop, asks his patients to brush up to four times a day, including in the morning after breakfast, after lunch, after dinner, and just before bed.

 

Keep in mind that you may need to replace your toothbrush more often when you are wearing dental appliances, such as braces. For this reason, be sure to examine your toothbrush regularly for wear and frayed bristles, which are indications that it’s time for a new toothbrush.

Call us at 301-608-9270 to learn more about brushing while having orthodontic treatments.