There are secrets to good toothrushing with braces you say??? Tell me more! Well, since you asked..
It all starts with your toothbrush
I firmly believe this. That’s why I provide all my patients with the most up-to-date Oral B/Braun electric toothbrush. The electric brush has a small round head which is great for getting to those hard to reach spots on and around your braces.
How long and how often?
Two minutes three times a day is NOT too much to devote to a healthy and beautiful smile. Your brush has a built in two minute timer. Still not convinced? Try making a playlist filled with fun two minute songs as a distraction:
The Beatles: She Came in Through the Bathroom Window
Elvis Costello: Welcome to the Working Week
Elvis Presley: All Shook Up
The Ramones: Let’s Dance
Simon and Garfunkel: The 59th Street Bridge Song
Use a Soft Touch
As kids, I think we were all taught to scrub our teeth in the hopes that something good would come of it. We know better now. Scrubbing can damage not only the gum tissue, but the enamel surface of the teeth as well. Soft bristles and gentle pressure are all it takes to get your teeth clean.
Take a Look
Just like when you are taking a math test, don’t be afraid to check your work. Look in the mirror and admire that sparkling clean smile. Something not sparkling? The most common areas that I see plaque left behind are along the gumline. Get that lip out of the way, give it a quick redo, and you should be good to go.
The final step
Don’t neglect your gums. Floss, floss, floss! Add a proxabrush to get in between the teeth and under the wires. And you may also find a Waterpik helpful.
The cherry on the sundae
Your reward? A beautiful and healthy smile that will last a lifetime.
