When you have standard metal braces, routine dental hygiene can be a little tricky — but it is incredibly important. Since food and bacteria can easily hide in wires and brackets, braces can raise your risk of cavities and gingivitis if you aren’t diligent about keeping your teeth clean. Fortunately, with the right tools and a little practice, Nicholas J. Hurley D.D.S., P.A., says it’s easy to keep your smile fresh. To help, this Thomasville, NC, dentist offers a few essential steps to caring for your teeth when you have braces.

Brush After Meals

When you don’t have braces, the minimum recommendation for brushing teeth is twice a day. When you do have braces, you should brush after every meal to keep food from getting stuck. Consider using an interdental brush, as it’s specifically designed to clean out hard-to-reach crevices. First, rinse to dislodge any large pieces of food. Then, carefully brush the outside, inner side, and crowns of each tooth while taking care to not damage the wires and brackets. Brushing toward the gum line at an angle will increase coverage of the tooth’s surface.

Use a Floss Threader 

Flossing takes a little extra care when you have braces, as you have to make sure to get the dental floss in between each space. To make the process easier, use a floss threader to guide the string over and through the brackets.  You may also want to consider using a water flosser to get more plaque out from tight spaces.

Rinse With Mouthwash

Mouthwash can do a lot more than refresh your breath, particularly when you have braces. At the end of your dental care routine, swish mouthwash around in your mouth to kill remaining bacteria hiding in places where your toothbrush or floss may not have reached. Spit it out after about 30 seconds and rinse with warm water.

The best way to practice proper dental hygiene when you have braces is to check with your dentist or orthodontist. Offering a variety of dental services in Thomasville, NC, Nicholas J. Hurley D.D.S., P.A., can provide routine dental cleanings, as well as review proper brushing and flossing techniques for braces. To schedule an appointment, contact a friendly staff member at (336) 476-1109.