World Orthodontic Health Day 2022

Happy World Orthodontic Health Day! World Orthodontic Health Day lands on May 15th each year and is a good opportunity to learn about how to take care of your oral health while undergoing orthodontic treatment. A good oral health routine is important for everyone, but it’s extra important for people with braces to take extra steps to assure their oral health is in tip top shape.

Dr Maghnus O’Donnell is an orthodontist in Dental Care Ireland Navan. To mark World Orthodontic Health Day, he has given 6 tips on how to effectively brush your teeth with braces.

#1. Prepare for brushing

Many people who have braces need to use elastics during their treatment. It’s important to remove these before you begin brushing your teeth to make sure you can clean your teeth and braces effectively. Once all removables have been taken out, it’s a good idea to rinse your mouth with mouthwash or water before brushing to loosen any particles that may be stuck between your teeth or braces. This will make it easier to brush them away.

#2. Brush from all angles

When you have braces, it’s important to brush your teeth and braces from all angles. Start by brushing at a 45 degree angle along the gum line. Make sure you do this gently so you don’t irritate your gums. You also need to hold the brush at an angle to brush along the top and underneath your brace brackets. Make sure you clean the surface of each tooth and brace. Then, brush along the inner surfaces and behind your teeth.

#3. Brush for at least two minutes

Brushing for two minutes twice a day is recommended for everyone. However, it may take longer to brush your teeth when you have braces as there are extra steps to take. Take your time and make sure you brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day for at least two minutes, but longer if necessary.

#4. Floss

Flossing is important for everyone, but it’s even more essential for people who have braces. Flossing allows you to remove debris from between the teeth where brushing can’t reach. These hard to reach areas are even harder to clean when you have braces, so flossing is very important. With string floss, you will need to thread it behind your brace to get between your teeth. Alternatively, you can use interdental brushes or a water flosser which may make it easier to get those hard to reach spots behind your braces.

#5. Rinse…again!

After you have brushed and flossed your teeth, it’s important to rinse your teeth for a final time with mouthwash. This makes sure that all the dirt and debris you have brushed and flossed away is rinsed out of your mouth. Don’t forget to replace any elastics or orthodontic removable pieces that you initially removed to brush your teeth.

#6. Keep up to date with your dental check ups.

You’ll be visiting your orthodontist frequently throughout your orthodontic treatment. While this may feel like a lot of appointments, it’s important to also visit your dentist for a dental check up and clean as you normally would. This will help keep your teeth clean and allow you to spot any issues early.

To book an appointment at your local Dental Care Ireland practice, you can visit our website here.