Can You Use an Electric Toothbrush When You Have Braces?

Braces can correct misaligned teeth and give your smile and appearance a spectacular finish. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for healthy teeth, especially during orthodontic treatment. In fact, proper care of the teeth can help shorten correction time. But what is the best way to care for your teeth when wearing braces? An electric toothbrush can help keep the teeth clear of oral disease-causing bacteria and plaque.

The Importance of Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment

When the teeth are fitted with braces, gums and teeth are more susceptible to complications. This is because plaque can build up on the metal pieces of the braces, as well as accumulate in difficult to reach places. When particles become trapped, it can lead to gum inflammation and tenderness. It is important to clean the teeth regularly to prevent problems such as gingivitis and cavities from arising.

Keeping the Teeth Clean When Wearing Braces

Brushing the teeth with an electric toothbrush can be a more efficient and effective way to keep plaque buildup (tartar) at bay. Because of its rotating brush technology, an electric toothbrush can remove twice as much plaque as a manual one. Many electric toothbrushes have special tips especially designed for braces and speed settings can be changed. In addition, some electric toothbrushes come with an irrigator. An irrigator consists of water pump and a tube with a small nozzle attachment, which can be used to spray water and rinse the mouth. An irrigator can reach interdental areas and loosen the food and particles that can get stuck in hard-to-reach areas.

Here are some oral hygiene tips to help you keep a healthy smile when wearing braces:

● Remove bands or other appliances before brushing
● Use an electric toothbrush
● Use a Waterpik before brushing to get food and dirt out from between your teeth
● Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, moving to a different quadrant every 30 seconds (upper left, lower left, upper right, lower right, for example)
● Consider using a brush attachment specially designed for braces
● Adjust the oscillation rate of the electric toothbrush to reduce discomfort in the gums
● Floss once a day before you brush

Electric toothbrushes can be a great way to keep your mouth fresh and healthy—whether you have braces or not. Daily brushing and flossing reduces the chances of tooth decay and helps ensure a strong smile. To monitor your oral health, regular checkups should be scheduled during orthodontic treatment.

At the office of Dr. Atoosa Nikaeen, you can find your solution to happy, straight, and healthy smile. We offer a multitude of options from braces to Invisalign. To schedule a consultation at our Los Angeles location, please call (310) 444-1113.

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