As you walk out of East Cobb Orthodontics, a weary teenager with brand new braces straggles along next to you. His mouth is sore; soft foods are on the menu tonight. He’s had trouble brushing well his entire life, and you’re concerned about how well he’ll keep his teeth clean with the braces. But he needs them to correct a terrible overbite and some crooked teeth, too.
You and he both need some tips to keep his smile healthy during orthodontic treatment.
Here’s how to get started:
- Choose a brush with a small head. The bristled part of your toothbrush needs to be able to get into the tiny spaces between the teeth and wires to remove the remnants of food. An electric toothbrush head is typically much smaller, and the electric vibration help get the teeth and braces clean. A standard small headed toothbrush will also work, but if your child has had trouble brushing well in the past, the electric brush will help even more.
- Soft Bristles are Better. The mouth is already sore from having the teeth nudged around, as well as possible gingivitis due to poor oral hygiene. A soft bristled brush prevents any unnecessary discomfort and potential damage to the teeth and gums.
- Two Minute Timer. Many electric brushes come with a built-in 2-minute timer to help people brush long enough. Sometimes this is enough to help a reluctant tooth-brusher get cleaner teeth.
When you’re ready to jump to the next step of dental and orthodontic care for you or your child, call East Cobb Orthodontics. We value our patients and want to help you have a healthier, brighter, more beautiful smile!