How to take care of oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment? Advice from Edent Dentistry in Warsaw

Wearing braces carries a greater risk of plaque buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and inflammation of the gums. Food debris can easily get stuck between brackets, wires and the spaces around the braces, making regular and thorough dental cleaning even more important. Lack of proper hygiene can not only delay the orthodontic treatment process, but also lead to more serious dental problems.

It is important to brush your teeth after every meal. Use a soft toothbrush that gently cleans brackets and wires without damaging them. Orthodontic brushes with a groove in the center can be especially helpful, as they are designed specifically for cleaning braces. Remember to brush not only your teeth, but also the area around your gums and brackets, where plaque accumulates most often.

Although flossing can be more complicated when wearing braces, it is extremely important. Special braces flossers or dental irrigators can make the process easier, effectively removing food debris from hard-to-reach areas. Regular flossing prevents plaque buildup between teeth, which is crucial for oral health.

Antibacterial mouthwash is an ideal addition to daily hygiene. It helps fight bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Rinsing your mouth after brushing and flossing further promotes oral protection, ensuring fresh breath and healthy gums.

Overlay braces, such as Invisalign, are becoming increasingly popular for their aesthetics and convenience. Although they are less visible than traditional braces, they require equally thorough oral hygiene.

The overlays should be cleaned at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening. A soft toothbrush and lukewarm water or special orthodontic overlay cleaners can be used for this. It is important to avoid hot water, which can distort the overlays. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria and food debris from accumulating on the surface of the trays, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Before putting the trays back on after a meal, always brush your teeth to remove food debris and plaque. This prevents tooth decay and keeps your mouth fresh.

It is recommended to rinse the mouth before bed with an antibacterial liquid to help eliminate bacteria and maintain a healthy mouth. It's also a good idea to remember to make regular check-ups at the dentist's office to monitor the progress of treatment.

The main difference between oral hygiene with traditional and overlay braces is the cleaning method. Traditional braces require more attention during brushing and flossing, as the brackets and wires can obstruct access to certain areas of the mouth. In contrast, overlay braces can be removed during meals and brushing, making it easier to clean teeth and gums thoroughly.
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Overlay braces are less problematic in terms of oral hygiene because they have no fixed components that can collect food debris. However, despite this convenience, patients need to be aware of the need to clean both the trays and teeth regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Learn more about the different types of braces on our orthodontic services page.