Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment, and interdental brushes can be a game-changer for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. These small, pointed brushes are designed to clean between teeth and around braces where a regular toothbrush might not reach. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use interdental brushes effectively around braces.
Why Use Interdental Brushes?
Interdental brushes are particularly beneficial for orthodontic patients because they:
- Remove plaque and food particles trapped between teeth and around braces.
- Help prevent gum disease and cavities by cleaning areas that are hard to reach with a regular toothbrush.
- Are gentle on the gums and can be used daily without causing irritation.
Choosing the Right Interdental Brush
Before you start using interdental brushes, it’s essential to choose the right size and type:
- Size: Interdental brushes come in various sizes. Choose a brush that fits comfortably between your teeth without forcing it.
- Shape: Look for brushes with flexible, soft bristles that can easily maneuver around your braces and wires.
- Handle: A brush with a long handle or an ergonomic grip can make it easier to use, especially for hard-to-reach areas.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Interdental Brushes
- Prepare Your Brush: Start with a clean, dry interdental brush. If the brush is bendable, you can adjust the angle to help reach different areas more comfortably.
- Insert the Brush: Gently insert the interdental brush between your teeth. Avoid forcing it through tight spaces to prevent damaging your gums or braces.
- Clean Around Braces:
- Around Brackets: Insert the brush under the wire and around the brackets. Use gentle back-and-forth motions to dislodge any trapped food particles and plaque.
- Between Teeth: Slide the brush in and out between your teeth, gently moving it back and forth to clean the sides of each tooth.
- Rinse the Brush: Rinse the brush under running water to remove debris before moving to the next area. If the brush becomes worn or frayed, replace it with a new one.
- Repeat for Each Tooth: Work systematically around your mouth, ensuring you clean each space between your teeth and around all brackets and wires.
- Post-Use Care: After using the interdental brush, rinse it thoroughly and store it in a clean, dry place. Regularly check for wear and replace the brush as needed.
Tips for Effective Use
- Be Gentle: Avoid using excessive force to prevent damaging your gums or bending the wire of your braces.
- Daily Routine: Incorporate interdental brushing into your daily oral hygiene routine, ideally after meals and before bedtime.
- Combine with Regular Brushing: Use interdental brushes in addition to your regular brushing routine. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing: If possible, continue to floss your teeth using orthodontic floss threaders or a water flosser for comprehensive cleaning.
Conclusion
Interdental brushes are an excellent tool for maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. By following these steps and incorporating interdental brushes into your daily routine, you can effectively clean around your braces, reduce the risk of dental issues, and ensure a healthy, beautiful smile throughout your orthodontic journey.
For expert advice and personalised orthodontic care, visit Broadbeach Orthodontics. Dr. Amesha Maree and her team provide a unique, relaxed experience, ensuring your oral health is in great hands.
