When you have braces, simple tasks like brushing and flossing become more complicated. Nevertheless, brushing and flossing your teeth is just as important while you have braces! Here are some tips from our Orthodontist in Chicago to make sure your time with braces goes smoothly and you end up with a smile that you love.
Use Special Tools
Our team can provide you with special dental tools to make the process of brushing and flossing a breeze. It can be difficult to reach certain areas of your mouth when you have brackets and wires obstructing you. To reach spaces under wires and around bands and brackets, use an interdental toothbrush that has small bristles that resemble a pipe cleaner. This is the perfect way to get rid of trapped debris in your braces.
Floss threaders are the perfect way to make flossing with braces tolerable. You can think of the process as if you were threading a needle through your wires to improve efficiency. Simply pull one end of floss through the threader and then push the threader underneath the wire. From there, you will be able to grab the floss and slide it between your teeth.
Brushing Techniques
A little patience goes a long way when you are brushing and flossing with braces on. Brush each wire, moving from the top to the bottom. Also make sure to brush all surfaces of your tooth, including chewing surfaces.
Schedule regular checkups with our orthodontist in Chicago to ensure you are getting all of the adjustments that you need. If you have more questions, please contact our team at Lippitz Orthodontics!