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Maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine is crucial to preserving your smile over the years. For children or adults receiving orthodontic treatment including braces, retainers and aligners, it’s even more important. That’s why our friendly orthodontist at SmileAlign Orthodontics provides all of our patients with as many tools as possible to keep decay-causing food particles and bacteria from building up on their teeth. After all, we’re working together to build a healthy, beautiful, long lasting smile, so let’s make sure there are no obstacles in the way.
Brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing are among the most widely accepted practices recommended by dentists and orthodontists. But if you have never used (or never even heard of) an interdental brush, you’re missing out on one of the most valuable tools for cleaning those hard-to-reach places in and around your braces’ brackets and wires.
This small brush (also known as a proximal brush) that somewhat resembles a pipe cleaner is composed of a plastic handle topped by a coated wire with bristles attached. The irregular shape and positioning of the bristles are ideal for vanquishing food particles and bacteria that a conventional toothbrush — either manual or electric — are not designed to reach. Interdental brushes come in different sizes, and they’re small enough to easily stow in your pocket or purse when you’re on the go. And, keep in mind that interdental brushes aren’t just for people with braces — they’re a handy way for anyone to take their oral hygiene regimen up a notch. Just remember to replace the proximal brush every three to four months, just as you would a conventional toothbrush or brush head.
Want to know more about how our orthodontist at SmileAlign Orthodontics can help you achieve that healthy, radiant smile you’ve always desired? Please contact our office today for a consultation.
By SmileAlign Orthodontics
July 27, 2022
