Interdental Toothbrush
A Proxabrush is an interdental (between the teeth) toothbrush that you may use to clean underneath and around your wires and braces. Use the Proxabrush gently to avoid damaging your wires. The Proxabrush will help you to clean your braces while maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Antibacterial Mouthwash
In order to better control the bacteria damage, we're advising patients in orthodontic appliances to rinse twice daily with a specfic over the counter mouth rinse, either Listerine or Crest Pro Health. These rinse products are unlike other over the counter rinses in that they have very specific bacteria controlling properties that along with proper brushing will help prevent marks, decay and gum problems.
To be effective the rinse should be vigorously worked around the teeth and braces for 30-60 seconds, twice daily. the rinse may sting a bit at first, young patients seem to prefer the mint flavor. Diluting it 1 part water, 2 parts rinse may be a good way to start. Full strength works the best.
Topical Fluoride
Prescription strength fluoride toothpaste (5,000 ppm) is a fluoride gel that helps prevent tooth decay while you are wearing braces by killing bacteria and replacing minerals in tooth enamel that have been exposed to harmful acids. You may use the prescription strength fluoride toothpaste instead of over the counter toothpaste while in treatment. It is important for the active ingredient to stay on your teeth for 15 minutes after brushing, so do not wash it away by eating or drinking.
Cleaning Your Removable Appliance
Brush your removable appliance every day as a part of your regular brushing and flossing schedule. Because food particles and plaque can accumulate on your appliance just as they do on your teeth, soak the appliance daily. Dissolve a Polident, Efferdent or other denture-cleaning tablet in a glass of tap water at room temperature and soak your appliance once every day. Your appliance will taste better, and you will prevent plaque and bacterial accumulation.