Whether you’re at home or on the go, keeping your teeth and metal braces in tip-top shape is necessary. Inevitably, you will find yourself in a situation that requires the removal of food from between your brackets and wires, so if you want to better prepare yourself for these potential predicaments, an orthodontist shares 5 dental instruments that you should keep nearby to effectively clean your appliances and maintain optimal oral health throughout treatment.
Keeping Your Braces Clean: 5 Instruments You Need
Just because you’re wearing braces doesn’t mean you’ll be spending all your time at home. Whether at school, work, or socializing with friends while out to dinner on a Friday night, it’s best to keep your own survival kit on hand to avoid problematic situations. A few of the most common instruments you will need to include are:
- An interproximal brush – This tool helps to remove food that can get stuck between brackets and underneath wires. Because it is small, it can easily rid the plaque on your teeth and keep your smile looking and feeling better than before.
- Dental floss – While brushing can help, floss will get in-between teeth, effectively removing bad bacteria and food particles trying to make their home in the crevices of your smile. If you prefer, make sure to keep a floss threader on hand to assist with the step of cleaning.
- Toothbrush – Yes, even with an interproximal brush, you should also carry a regular toothbrush with you. If you don’t have toothpaste, the motion of the brush can still help to remove harmful particles from your teeth and braces. While on the go, keep a travel-size brush with you to prevent taking up as much space.
- Toothpaste – Small, travel-sized toothpaste tubes are great for when you’re on the go. Just make sure to screw the cap on tightly or keep it in a small plastic bag to keep from messing up your bag or purse should it ooze out.
- Water – You may not need to keep a bottle of water with you, especially if you are in a bathroom. However, it certainly doesn’t hurt. Although not technically an “instrument,” it is necessary to help rinse your mouth when your toothbrush is MIA (missing in action).
You might also keep dental wax, a mirror, and Tylenol or another similar over-the-counter pain reliever should you experience any discomfort.
Why Cleaning On the Go is Important
If you’re thinking, “I can just wait home to take care of my teeth,” it’s best to avoid this mindset, especially while wearing braces. With orthodontic appliances, you can already guarantee it will take you a bit longer to complete your oral hygiene routine. By putting it off and allowing food and bacteria to adhere to your teeth and braces more thoroughly, it will only extend the length of time you’ll need to spend cleaning when you get home. Not to mention, if you eat sugars or starches, these can begin to eat away at your tooth enamel the longer they remain in place.
By promptly cleaning your braces after a meal or snack, you can rid your oral cavity and appliances of anything that might hinder or delay your treatment later on.
About the Author
Dr. James Hart earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Austin College before graduating in the Top 10% of his class at the Baylor College of Dentistry, achieving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He also completed a master’s degree and finished his orthodontic residency at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. Dr. Hart has provided high-quality orthodontic care since 1978, and he works to stay up to date on the latest advancements in the field. Whether you need traditional braces or Invisalign, let him help you achieve the smile you deserve. Contact us via our website or by calling (817) 645-2432 to find out what additional information you need to do to take better care of your orthodontic appliances.