Summer is over and school is back in session. If you are in orthodontic treatment, whether you are a student or not, now is a great time to brush up (pun intended) on your oral hygiene habits. I cannot stress enough how important it is to keep your teeth and gums healthy, while in braces or clear aligners, throughout your whole life. It truly can make the difference between having a smile you love versus one you don’t. I have been practicing orthodontics for 14 years, and here are some of my favorite oral hygiene supplies to help you get an A+ at your next orthodontic or dental appointment. All of these can be easily purchased online, and most can be found in the oral hygiene section at your favorite grocery or drug store.
1. Toddler-sized toothbrush: A smaller toothbrush head fits better around brackets and wires and in those hard to reach corners at the back of your mouth. While in orthodontics, you should ideally brush every time you eat (at least 3-4 times per day).
2. Oral B Superfloss: This the only time I get picky about brand. Superfloss is a 3-in-1 product. It fits under wires without a separate floss threader. The thick spongy part helps remove larger food particles from around braces, and the thin floss at the end gets between your teeth. Make sure you floss at least once every day.
3. Proxabrush: These small interdental brushes fit well under brackets and wires to help remove larger food particles. They usually come with a cap and are easy to take on the go.
4. Water flosser: Think of it like a power washer for your mouth. It does not replace regular brushing and flossing, but it’s a great add-on. Get one that you can use in the shower to save yourself extra clean up in the bathroom.
5. Plaque disclosing tablets: Often, I find patients don’t realize they aren’t getting their teeth fully clean when they brush and floss. Plaque is frequently whitish, which can make it difficult to see. That’s where plaque disclosing tablets come in. Brush first, then chew one of these tablets and spit it out. The plaque will be stained a different color (usually pink or purple) so you can see what areas you’re missing.
6. Fluoride mouthwash: The main reason I recommend this is to prevent unsightly scars and marks from forming on teeth around the brackets. Those marks are actually demineralization of the enamel and, if allowed to progress, can turn into cavities. In addition to keeping your teeth clean and avoiding sugary or acidic drinks, fluoride mouthwash helps protect and strengthen the enamel to prevent that demineralization from occurring.
7. Flavored toothpaste: My five-year-old son tells me that mint is too spicy, but he loves his strawberry mango toothpaste. From sweet to savory to herbal, there are so many options available. There is no reason that toothpaste flavor should be a barrier to good oral hygiene. Even floss comes in fun flavors now.
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