Braces help straighten the teeth, create a beautiful smile, and correct bite defects. These appliances are worn permanently, and the treatment duration can last several years. A brace system consists of orthodontic archwires, bands, chains, brackets, and other components. The challenge is that food particles get trapped in the elements of the orthodontic structure, leading to plaque buildup; therefore, proper care for braces is essential.
Basic Rules
Caring for braces should include the following hygienic procedures:
- thorough brushing of the teeth twice a day;
- flossing between the teeth;
- removing plaque from hard-to-reach areas using an interdental brush;
- using dental floss and mouthwash throughout the day after meals.
Caring for braces also involves certain dietary restrictions. You should minimize the consumption of sweets and exclude excessively hard foods, sticky products, and fruits or vegetables with small seeds. For oral hygiene, it is necessary to purchase the following accessories and tools:
- a V-shaped orthodontic toothbrush;
- interdental brushes;
- waxed dental floss;
- toothpaste with calcium or fluoride;
- therapeutic and preventive mouthwash.
An oral irrigator (water flosser) would also be beneficial.
Professional Braces Cleaning at the Dentist
Yernar Zhasulanovich Usembayev — an orthodontist with over 15 years of experience, who treats bites of any complexity or anomaly and is an expert in the biomechanics of the dental system — recommends undergoing regular oral hygiene every 3 months. In his practice, the doctor confidently coordinates with related specialists, ensuring exceptional results.
According to him, even the highest quality home care for braces cannot completely remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas. Therefore, a professional dental cleaning should be performed every three months; this can be done at the Doctor Dent clinic. The AirFlow system is used for professional plaque removal. With its help, the doctor will thoroughly clean the brackets of the orthodontic structure and remove deposits in the subgingival area. Regular professional cleanings help prevent the onset and development of many dental problems.
