7 important points about orthodontic toothbrush
One of the most important tasks in orthodontic treatment is oral hygiene. Orthodontic treatment is a long-term treatment, so paying attention to oral health is very important. In all types of orthodontics, especially fixed orthodontics where the braces are attached to the teeth, food can easily get stuck in this space and eventually cause tooth decay. Therefore, one of the most important and primary accessories for orthodontic treatment is an orthodontic toothbrush and orthodontic floss.
It doesn’t matter what shape or gender the braces are, the way they are placed on the teeth is in such a way that food easily gets stuck between them and creates a suitable place for bacteria to grow. The special orthodontic toothbrush should pass through the braces and clean the food and plaque around the brackets well. In the following, we will review the important points about orthodontic toothbrushes and choosing a special orthodontic toothbrush. Stay with us.
What is the shape of an orthodontic toothbrush?
Guidance on choosing the best type of toothbrush for orthodontics should be done in consultation with an orthodontic specialist. This toothbrush has long bristles on both sides and in the shape of the number 7, so that all the corners around the brackets can be cleaned from food and plaques. The best toothbrush for orthodontics should be in such a way that it is easy to clean around the braces and teeth after every meal without causing damage to the gums.
The important thing when using a special orthodontic toothbrush is that the way you brush your teeth should be correct and basic and clean both under the wires and brackets well. If hygiene is not followed, bacteria can grow under the wire and around the bracket and cause gingivitis, gum infection and mouth infection. In the following, we will examine some important points about the orthodontic toothbrush and how to use it correctly.
- Complete cleaning of the space between the teeth with an angle of 45 degrees between the gum and the brackets (which includes the space between the teeth and the natural space between the teeth)
- Complete cleaning of the wire and all around the brackets in a rotating direction (do this carefully so as not to damage the wires and brackets, if you see loose or broken brackets and wires, see your orthodontic dentist)
- Complete cleaning around the gums and massaging the gums to reduce gum inflammation
- Cleaning the parts of the tooth where the wire is located
- Cleaning the chewing surface of the teeth frequently in a reciprocating mode
- Cleaning the space under the orthodontic wire with an interdental brush
- Thorough cleaning of the tongue and cleaning of the tongue villi to prevent bacterial growth
Note that maintaining oral and dental hygiene is one of the basic principles during orthodontic treatment to prevent the accumulation of plaque and the growth of bacteria. Keeping the teeth clean while using orthodontic brackets is also possible with a normal toothbrush, provided that all the space around the brackets is taken into account for correct and basic cleaning, because the priority is to maintain the health of the teeth.
