Braces are an option for those looking to move teeth into proper positioning, also called realignment. When braces are placed on the teeth, patients must be more meticulous with oral hygiene care, which can often become more challenging: Food and plaque can quickly build up around braces and impact oral health. With braces, plaque levels can increase, causing inflammation of gum tissue and leading to gingivitis. Gingivitis is a chronic inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding teeth and supporting structures. If gingivitis progresses, supporting bone around the teeth can be destroyed, and the risk of tooth loss and other health conditions increases. To prevent gingivitis with braces, there are oral hygiene aids that can help patients keep teeth and braces free of food debris and plaque.
The basics of proper oral hygiene always include a daily brushing schedule. Twice daily brushing for a full two minutes is typically recommended.To improve brushing with braces, special brushes can be used, such as smaller toothbrush heads, electric toothbrushes, and specially designed brushes for braces are all options to ensure proper and effective plaque removal.
Daily flossing is another crucial part of an effective oral hygiene routine. With braces, regular string floss may be challenging to use.Other flossing aids such as water flossers, picks, and threaders may help remove plaque bacteria from between teeth contacts, beneath gum lines, and surrounding brackets and wires.
Gingivitis must be with patients in orthodontics to ensure the teeth and bone support remain healthy during treatment. If oral hygiene is not addressed and gingivitis and plaque buildup continue, braces will be removed until the patient can improve their oral health. Talk to your dental hygienist to discuss the best ways to keep your braces clean and avoid complications of gingivitis.