How to Properly Clean Traditional Braces

The journey to straight teeth, particularly with traditional braces, is not just about achieving a perfect smile but also about maintaining optimal dental health. This in-depth guide, incorporating insights from Woodlawn Orthodontics, offers a thorough understanding of the importance of cleaning and maintaining traditional braces. (Source: Colgate, Protect Your Investment: How to Clean Braces, Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications,  January 9, 2023, https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/early-orthodontics/protect-your-investment-how-to-clean-braces# ).

Understanding the Challenges with Traditional Braces

Traditional braces, comprising wires, bands, and brackets, create unique cleaning challenges. Woodlawn Orthodontics emphasizes this, stating, “Traditional braces, with their intricate design, are prone to trapping food particles, plaque, and bacteria, more so than other orthodontic appliances. This makes them particularly susceptible to causing oral health issues if not properly maintained. Our experience shows that diligent cleaning and maintenance are non-negotiable aspects of wearing traditional braces.”

Home Care for Traditional Braces

1. Floss/Interdental Cleaners: The importance of cleaning the interproximal spaces cannot be overstated. “In our practice, we’ve observed that the use of floss or interdental brushes significantly reduces the risk of plaque and tartar build-up, which are common issues with traditional braces. We advise our patients to make these tools part of their daily oral hygiene routine.”
2. Oral Irrigation Systems: Woodlawn Orthodontics recognizes the benefits of modern cleaning tools. “Oral irrigators, or water flossers, have proven to be a game-changer for many of our patients. They offer an efficient way to clean around the brackets and wires, reaching areas that traditional brushing and flossing might miss.”
3. Brushing Teeth and Brackets: Proper brushing technique is crucial. “Many of our patients are surprised to learn that they haven’t been brushing as effectively as they could. With traditional braces, it’s essential to angle the brush correctly and ensure that all surfaces of the braces and teeth are thoroughly cleaned. We often provide hands-on demonstrations to guide our patients.”
4. Fluoride Treatments and Germ Killers: The use of these products is highly recommended by Woodlawn Orthodontics. “Fluoride treatments and antibacterial rinses play a critical role in protecting the teeth from bacterial build-up, especially in the nooks and crannies created by traditional braces.”

The Risk of Tooth Decay with Traditional Braces

The irony of braces increasing the risk of tooth decay is not lost on Woodlawn Orthodontics. “It’s a paradox that while braces are used to improve oral health, they can also increase the risk of dental problems. Regular dental check-ups and following a rigorous cleaning routine are essential to ensure that the health of the teeth is not compromised during the orthodontic treatment.”

The Importance of Professional Cleanings

Woodlawn Orthodontics strongly advises professional cleanings. “While excellent home care is crucial, professional cleanings provide a deeper level of oral hygiene that is vital for anyone wearing traditional braces. These cleanings help in removing any plaque or tartar build-up and in assessing the overall health of the teeth and gums, ensuring that the journey towards straight teeth is a healthy one.”

In conclusion, this guide, enriched with expert advice from Woodlawn Orthodontics, serves as an essential resource for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment with traditional braces. It underscores the critical nature of maintaining rigorous oral hygiene to ensure the health and longevity of the braces and teeth they align. Traditional braces can be a successful, health-positive path to a straighter, healthier smile with proper care and attention.