Today, consumers have more options than ever in terms of the products available to them. That extends to every type of product, including dental care. Have a look at the dental shelf at your local grocery store or pharmacy, and you’ll probably find more options than you can handle for toothbrushes, floss, and mouthwash. Zeroing in on toothbrushes specifically, the first big question is: electric or manual? If you wear braces, you may also wonder if that affects the answer at all. Let’s dive in!
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes are a great option for people who wear braces! This is because of a few different things. For starters, they’re designed for more effective plaque removal and deep cleaning due to their rotation and vibration. On top of that, their built-in timer make it easier to brush your teeth for the recommended two minutes each time. All of this is helpful in a case where the wires and brackets of braces more easily trap food particles.
Good Brushing Habits
While using an electric toothbrush is a good step in keeping your teeth clean, there are a few other things you should keep in mind to practice healthy oral hygiene habits with braces:
- Use a toothbrush head with soft bristles that is specifically designed for us with orthodontic appliances.
- Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle towards the gums.
- Try to brush after every meal but at the very least twice a day.
- Replace your toothbrush head every three to four months to ensure an effective clean.
Need more oral hygiene tips? Farmington Dental & Orthodontics has you covered! Contact us today and a member of our team will be there to help you! As providers of comprehensive family dentistry, we’re also available whenever you find yourself in need of your next teeth cleaning or dental treatment.