Braces and dental care
 

While proper-fitting bands or brackets usually protect the covered portion of your teeth, the brackets and wires on the outside of teeth make it harder for the toothbrush to clean between teeth.

Trapped food particles and plaque are a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria. Gum disease also can develop, causing swelling and making cleaning even more challenging and painful. Improper care can also stain tooth enamel.

	"How often do I need to brush with dental braces?"
	Preferably brush within five minutes after you eat anything, whether you're snacking or after a meal. Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria helps keep your teeth cavity-free. Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse, or briefcase to always have on hand for brushing away from home.
	"How do I brush my teeth with braces?"
	Brush between wires and gums to loosen any food particles. There are special toothbrushes for this, check with us for recommendations. Start on the outside of your upper teeth, positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle, toward the gum above the brackets. Brush two to three teeth at a time using a back and forth motion, to about the count of ten. Repeat this process positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle at the gum line down toward the brackets, and then repeat this process positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle up toward the brackets from the end of the tooth. This gets the braces on both top and bottom of the bracket or band. Next brush the inner surfaces by positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle toward the gum and brushing 2 or 3 teeth at a time in a back and forth motion to the count of 10. Brush the chewing surfaces.   Repeat the same process for the lower teeth as for the upper ones. Brush your tongue thoroughly.   Rinse your mouth as well as your toothbrush. Check your teeth in a mirror to make sure you've brushed all tooth surfaces. Floss daily between braces using a floss threader.   Toothpicks, stimudents, and other interdental devices work well under brackets.

You may also want to use a water oral hygiene device that helps to remove food particles the toothbrush may not reach. It is used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute.

While wearing braces, be sure to schedule regular dental exams every three to six months for cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Ask your dentist and orthodontist how often they wish to see you.

For more information about how we at Pacifico Dental Care can help you with dental braces, call us at (610) 588-2722, we will be happy to talk with you.