Dr. Wood, DDS, and Dr. Schapper, DMD, at Dental Health PC in Corvallis, Oregon, offer a host of cosmetic, preventative, and restorative procedures for patients of all ages.

For our patients undergoing orthodontic treatments with braces, a crucial part of their treatment’s success is maintaining a robust oral care routine that includes proper brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental visits and cleanings. 

Read on to learn more about what we recommend to our patients with braces to ensure their treatment is a success.

How Often Should You Visit Your Dentist When Wearing Braces?

Oral care for people with and without braces differs considerably. If you have braces, our dentists recommend you visit the office every four to six weeks instead of once every six months. 

During your regular visits, Dr. Wood or Dr. Schapper will be able to give your teeth a thorough cleaning, especially under the brackets where your brush can’t reach. This way, they can prevent the onset of tooth decay, gum diseases, and other potential illnesses. 

Regular visits are also required to check that the wires fastening the braces are firm enough and that adequate pressure is being applied on the teeth.

6 Tools to Use to Maintain Optimum Oral Hygiene With Braces

Let’s take a look at a few tools that come in handy to help you keep your teeth in optimum shape during the braces treatment:

• Electric Toothbrush

Our dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush during braces treatment as it can remove plaque and clean your teeth more effectively than a manual toothbrush.

• Ortho Flossers

Flossing is a must for people with braces. Consider investing in an ortho flosser if you haven’t already, as it is designed explicitly for braces and can help you floss between your teeth and under the wires safely and effectively.

• Antibacterial Mouthwash

Braces increase the chances of germ and bacteria buildup in your mouth. Using an antibacterial mouthwash will help you eliminate germs and bacteria and keep your mouth fresh.

• Floss Threader

A floss threader can help you get rid of all the food deposits between your teeth.

• Tongue Scraper

Although a tongue scraper isn’t directly linked to making life with braces easier, it does help keep your mouth clean and keeps your breath fresh.

• Water Flosser

A water flosser is a very convenient tool you can use to remove any food debris between your teeth. 

Oral Care Tips for Patients With Braces

Here are a few handy tips to help you maintain the best oral health when wearing braces:

• Brush twice a day and floss once a day
• Use brushes and flossers that are designed for braces 
• Rinse your mouth after each meal and clean in between the brackets of your braces 

To learn more about the best ways to care for your dental health when wearing braces, contact Dr. Hall or Dr. Schapper at Dental Health PC in Corvallis, Oregon, at (541) 757-1829, schedule an appointment online, or visit us at 869 NW 23rd Street, Corvallis, OR 97330.