Getting braces is an exciting time, but it also comes with some new oral hygiene challenges. One common question is whether you can still use an electric toothbrush once you have braces. The short answer is yes, you can and should continue to use an electric toothbrush with braces! Here’s what you need to know about caring for your teeth and braces with an electric toothbrush.
Choosing the Right Electric Toothbrush
Not all electric toothbrushes are created equal when it comes to using them with braces. Look for an electric toothbrush that has small, round bristles and a compact brush head. This will allow you to easily maneuver the brush around the brackets and wires. Sonic toothbrushes that vibrate are ideal, as opposed to ones that rotate. Rotating electric toothbrush heads can get caught on your braces.
Some top choices for electric toothbrushes to use during orthodontic treatment include:
- Oral-B Pro 1000 Power Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
- Philips Sonicare Protective Clean 4100 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
- Quip Metal Electric Toothbrush
Be sure to choose a soft or extra soft brush head. Medium and hard bristles can be too abrasive on your teeth and gums. Ask your Calgary orthodontist which electric brushes and heads they recommend for use with braces.
Brushing Technique with Braces
The technique you use with your electric toothbrush matters when you have braces. Here are some tips:
- Brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. This helps the bristles get under and around the brackets and wires.
- Brush each tooth surface - front, back, top, and tongue side - for 5-10 seconds each.
- Move methodically from tooth to tooth, bracket to bracket.
- Take extra care to brush along your gumlines, as plaque loves to collect there.
- Use the flossing head, if your brush has one, to clean between teeth and around wires.
- Focus the brush head on spots around brackets or bands where plaque may build up.
It takes a little more time and attention to thoroughly clean teeth and braces with an electric toothbrush. Invest the time for better oral health.
Other Oral Hygiene Considerations
Don’t neglect other aspects of your oral hygiene while wearing braces:
- Floss daily, taking extra care around orthodontic brackets. Use floss threaders if needed.
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate bacteria around braces.
- Brush after meals whenever possible if you eat food that could get stuck in braces.
- Schedule more frequent dental cleanings every 3 or 4 months.
- Limit sugary snacks and acidic foods that promote cavities.
See your Calgary orthodontist right away if your braces are causing irritation in your mouth or issues brushing. They can provide wax or bands to make braces more comfortable.
Benefits of Electric Toothbrushes with Braces
Electric toothbrushes provide important benefits for teeth and braces near you:
- Vibrations or oscillations provide a superior clean you can’t match manually.
- Times brushing for you so you brush thoroughly.
- Rotation/oscillation reaches all angles needed to clean braces.
- Removes up to 300% more plaque around brackets vs. a manual brush.
- Helps prevent white spot lesions and decay around orthodontic bands.
- Polishes and cleans between teeth.
- Maintains healthy gums during treatment.
Ask your orthodontist for other tips about caring for your braces while using your electric toothbrush. With the right brushing technique and toothbrush, you can keep your teeth sparkling clean during orthodontic treatment.
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