If you have braces, Invisalign, Angel Aligners, or any other orthodontic treatment, you are on your way to a shining smile. But did you know that fighting dental plaque during your orthodontic treatment could be one of the biggest challenges you will face?

When you have braces Invisalign, Angel Aligners, or any other orthodontic treatment it is crucial to keep your teeth squeaky clean to have the best smile when your orthodontic journey is done! Here at Imagine Orthodontic Studio, we have created some amazing tips to fight dental plaque and make sure you have the perfect shining smile when you are done!

When you have braces it is important to keep your dental plaque under control. That is why we focus so much on making sure that you are brushing and taking care of your teeth correctly.

Brushing

Brushing your teeth is the first line of defense when it comes to fighting dental plaque, even when you don’t have braces. While you still have your braces make sure that you are using the right type of toothbrush to clean the dental plaque off your teeth.

You want to use a toothbrush with soft bristles that can reach around your brackets and wires. Make sure that you brush after every meal with braces. Food particles can get lodged between your teeth or even around your braces, which can cause dental plaque when not taken care of. Brushing after every meal will ensure that both food and dental plaque build-up is taken care of.

Make sure that when you are brushing you are taking the fill 2-minutes you need to brush your teeth. One of the most skipped rules when it comes to teeth brushing is spending at least two minutes brushing, making sure to clean all the surfaces of your teeth.

Flossing

Flossing with braces can seem tricky, but it is a must-do when you are trying to keep dental plaque at bay. When you are flossing make sure that you use a floss threader, this is a a small flexible tool that can help you get around and under your wires.

Another type of flosser that you can attempt to use when you have braces is an interdental brush. An interdental brush is what our professional orthodontic team will suggest you use to fight dental plaque.

The last type of flosser that you can use when you have braces is a water flosser. This trendy new tool uses a stream of water to clean between your teeth and around your brackets and wires. This is a great option if you struggle with flossing your teeth the traditional route.

Mouthwash

While you may think that mouthwash is only for fresh minty breath, it can also help to fight dental plaque and keep your teeth and gums healthy. When you are shopping for a mouthwash to use with your braces, Invisalign, Angel Aligners, or any other orthodontic treatment make sure to steer clear of sugary mouthwashes. Some mouthwashes will contain added sugars which can lead to more dental plaque. Look for mouthwashes that are designed to kill bacteria and reduce plaque.

Visit Your Orthodontist

When you are going through your orthodontic journey it is important to show up for your regular visits. This is key to keeping your teeth healthy and plaque-free. Our professional team is here to help maintain your smile and make sure that you are fighting dental plaque buildup while you have your braces.

Let’s work together to keep your shining smile intact during your orthodontic journey. If you are ready to tackle and improve your smile contact any of our orthodontic offices in Tampa, Lakeland, Orlando, St.Petersburg, or Clearwater to schedule your free consultation.