If you’re wearing braces, you know that taking care of your teeth is more important than ever. But how often should you change your toothbrush when you have braces?
The answer is: every 3 months.
Here are a few reasons why:
- Braces can trap food and bacteria. When you eat, food can get stuck in the brackets and wires of your braces. This can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause cavities and gum disease.
- A dirty toothbrush can spread bacteria. If you don’t change your toothbrush regularly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria can then be transferred to your mouth when you brush your teeth, which can increase your risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
- A worn-out toothbrush is not as effective at cleaning your teeth. As your toothbrush gets older, the bristles will start to wear down. This makes it less effective at removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth.
So, to keep your teeth healthy while you’re wearing braces, be sure to change your toothbrush every 3 months.
How to Choose the Right Toothbrush for Braces
When you’re choosing a toothbrush for braces, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The bristles should be soft. Soft bristles are less likely to damage your braces or irritate your gums.
- The head of the toothbrush should be small. A small head will make it easier to reach all the areas of your mouth, including the areas around your braces.
- The handle should be comfortable to hold. You’ll be brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day, so make sure you choose a toothbrush that is comfortable to hold.
How to Brush Your Teeth with Braces
Once you have the right toothbrush, you need to know how to brush your teeth with braces. Here are the steps:
- Wet your toothbrush and apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
- Start by brushing the outside of your teeth. Use gentle circular motions.
- Next, brush the inside of your teeth. Again, use gentle circular motions.
- Finally, brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Use back-and-forth motions.
- Be sure to brush your tongue. This will help to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Other Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Healthy with Braces
In addition to changing your toothbrush every 3 months, there are a few other things you can do to keep your teeth healthy while you’re wearing braces:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. The best time to brush your teeth is after breakfast and before bed.
- Floss your teeth once a day. Flossing is the best way to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and around your braces.
- Use a mouthwash. Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- See your dentist regularly. Your dentist can check your teeth for cavities and gum disease and make sure your braces are fitting properly.
Conclusion
Taking care of your teeth while you’re wearing braces is important for your oral health. By following these tips, you can keep your teeth healthy and your smile looking great.
Additional Information
- The American Dental Association recommends changing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.
- A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that people who changed their toothbrush every 3 months had less plaque and gingivitis than people who changed their toothbrush less frequently.
- Another study published in the journal Pediatrics found that children who changed their toothbrush every 3 months had fewer cavities than children who changed their toothbrush less frequently.
