To clean the tooth surfaces obstructed by the braces wire, gently tilt your soft toothbrush 45 degrees and clean underneath the wire.
Cleaning teeth with braces requires a specific technique to ensure all surfaces, including those partially covered by brackets and wires, are thoroughly cleaned. The primary goal is to remove food particles and plaque that can easily get trapped.
Essential Steps for Braces Cleaning
Effective cleaning involves targeting different areas of the tooth and the braces hardware. According to standard recommendations and based on the provided reference, the process involves several steps:
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Brush Unobstructed Areas First:
- Begin with the parts of your teeth that are not covered by brackets or wires.
- Brush thoroughly from the gumline all the way to the tip of the tooth.
- Use a soft toothbrush for this step.
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Clean Around Each Bracket:
- Utilize a specialized tool like a single-tufted brush (also known as an end-tuft brush).
- Carefully clean around the edges and surfaces of each individual bracket.
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Clean Under the Wires:
- This step addresses the areas "behind" or "under" the braces wire.
- Tilt your soft toothbrush 45 degrees.
- Gently clean under the wires using this angled approach. This angle helps the bristles reach the tooth surface located beneath the wire.
Tools for Cleaning Behind Braces Wire
The primary tool mentioned in the reference for cleaning under the wires is your soft toothbrush, tilted at a 45-degree angle. Other tools are used for different parts of the braces cleaning process:
| Cleaning Area | Recommended Tool (based on reference) | Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Unobstructed Tooth Surfaces | Soft Toothbrush | Brush from gumline to tooth tip |
| Around Brackets | Single Tufted Brush | Clean around the edges of each bracket |
| Under/Behind Braces Wire | Soft Toothbrush | Tilt 45 degrees and clean gently underneath |
It's crucial to be gentle while cleaning to avoid damaging your braces or gums. Spending adequate time on each tooth and bracket ensures comprehensive cleaning and helps prevent cavities and gum problems during orthodontic treatment.
Remember to follow any specific cleaning instructions provided by your orthodontist, as they may recommend additional tools or techniques suitable for your individual case.
