Orthodontic Care With Braces - What Dr. Kuruvadi Suggests....
When
your mouth is loaded with extras -- bands, brackets, and wires -- brushing
your teeth gets tougher and extra important. Plus, braces interfere with
the natural chewing process that normally bathes and exercises gums and
helps clean teeth.
At Kuruvadi Braces - Orthodontist we feel caring for your teeth and keeping them cavity-free is a
top priority during orthodontic treatment.
While proper-fitting bands or brackets
usually protect the covered portion of your teeth, the brackets and wires
on the outside of teeth make it harder for the toothbrush to clean between
teeth.
Trapped food particles and plaque are a breeding ground for
cavity-causing bacteria. Dr. Kuruvadi often notes that gum disease also can develop, causing swelling
and making cleaning even more challenging and painful. Improper care can
also stain tooth enamel.
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"Dr. Kuruvadi, how often do I need to brush with
dental braces?"
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Preferably brush within five minutes
after you eat anything, whether you're snacking or after a meal.
Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria helps keep your teeth
cavity-free.
Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse, or briefcase to
always have on hand for brushing away from home.
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"How do I brush my teeth with braces?"
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Brush between wires and gums to
loosen any food particles. There are special toothbrushes for
this, check with your orthodontist for recommendations.
At Kuruvadi Braces - Orthodontist we suggest you start on the outside of
your upper teeth, positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle, toward
the gum. Brush two to three teeth at a time using a circular motion,
about ten strokes.
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Next, brush the inner surfaces in the same
manner.
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Brush the chewing surfaces. |
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Repeat the same process for the lower teeth as
for the upper ones. |
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Rinse your mouth as well as your toothbrush.
Check your teeth in a mirror to make sure you've brushed all
tooth surfaces. |
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Floss daily between braces using a floss threader. |
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Toothpicks, stimudents, and other interdental
devices work well under brackets. |
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At Kuruvadi Braces - Orthodontist, we often suggest you use a water oral
hygiene device that helps to remove food particles the toothbrush may not
reach. It is used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a
substitute.
While wearing braces, be sure to schedule
regular dental exams every three to six months for cleanings to keep your
teeth and gums healthy.
For more information about how we at Kuruvadi Braces - Orthodontist can help you with
dental braces, call us at (619) 442-4141, we will be happy to talk with you.
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