Braces are the most common orthodontic appliance. Still, many people use regular toothbrushes to clean them. What’s even surprising is that a lot don’t know the proper way of brushing their teeth when wearing braces. Thankfully, PRO-SYS is here to help shed some light on this topic! 

We’ll show you the proper techniques for brushing your teeth using an orthodontic toothbrush in this article. Also, we’ll cover a few of the common challenges people with braces face while brushing and how you can overcome them!

Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Orthodontic Toothbrush 

Step 1: Take out the removable parts of your braces and rinse your mouth.

Remove the elastics, bands, and other removable parts of your orthodontic appliance before brushing. Then, rinse your mouth with water to help loosen the food debris that may have gotten stuck around your braces.

Step 2: Clean each wire carefully.

Position your orthodontic toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and clean around the wires and pins of your braces. Once you’ve done that, brush each bracket from top to bottom, moving all around your upper and lower teeth.

Step 3: Use the orthodontic toothbrush to clean your teeth.

After thoroughly cleaning your braces, it’s time to focus on your teeth and gums. The ADA recommends brushing your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day.

Step 4: Rinse and check your teeth.

Once you’ve brushed every area, rinse your mouth thoroughly. Remember to look into a mirror and check your teeth and braces to see if any food particles remain lodged in your teeth.

The Challenges of Brushing Teeth With Braces (and How an Orthodontic Toothbrush Helps)

Many people find it difficult to keep their teeth and braces clean, and here are just a few of the reasons why:

Cleaning Around Brackets and Wires

When you’re not yet used to brushing while wearing braces, the process can feel intimidating. Maneuvering around the brackets and wires can be tricky, and some people end up neglecting areas of their teeth because they don’t feel comfortable cleaning around the wires. Thankfully, a good toothbrush for braces can remedy this problem, allowing you to move around the wires and clean your teeth thoroughly.

Food Getting Stuck in Tight Areas

Another problem that many people with braces encounter is that food particles quickly get stuck between the wires. With the right orthodontic toothbrush (and some dental floss), you can loosen the debris with greater ease and prevent plaque buildup.

Accidentally Damaging Wires and Pins

This is a possibility for individuals who haven’t learned the proper techniques for brushing while wearing braces. Sometimes, using too much force while brushing your teeth can break the bracket and wires, leading to pain and discomfort. 

Using an electric toothbrush for braces can help you avoid this because you can adjust the settings to ensure that you don’t brush too vigorously. Plus, many top-of-the-line electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers that let you know when it’s time to move to a different area of your mouth, avoiding injury and ensuring a thorough clean.

Choose a Quality Orthodontic Toothbrush From a Trusted Brand!

What is the best toothbrush for braces? The answer: one that is designed for gentle and effective cleaning, easy to maneuver around brackets and wires, and can be customized based on your brushing sensitivity. The PRO-SYS VarioSonic Orthodontic Electric Toothbrush has all of these features and more. 
Ensure a thorough clean for your teeth and braces by using the best electric orthodontic toothbrush in the market today. Try it and experience the difference!