Introduction
During an orthodontic treatment, i.e. the time when braces are worn, a particularly intensive and careful oral hygiene is necessary. The braces themselves also need special care and thorough cleaning. The reason for the constant cleaning of the braces is the fact that food residues and bacteria can get stuck between the teeth and on the braces especially well.
This promotes the formation of plaque (dental plaque), a bio-film made up of bacterial metabolic waste products and food residues, and promotes carious tooth defects or the development of inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). Brushing the teeth should be done after every meal, and cleaning the interdental spaces should not be neglected. Every single tooth must be cleaned individually from all sides.
The interdental spaces can be cleaned with the help of dental floss if you wear loose braces. If you wear fixed braces, you should rather use interdental space brushes (interdental space brushes) or special floss, which has a reinforced end with which you can easily thread it under the wires, because of the wires. This is followed by a thicker, looser part that can efficiently remove deposits.
Which braces cleaners are available?
Daily cleaning of braces is an essential part of maintaining them and removing deposits and bacteria from the braces. It is important that the braces are cleaned gently and that the materials are not changed or deformed by the cleaning agents, which is not always the case. Good daily tools to clean the braces include the classic manual toothbrush or the electric toothbrush with toothpaste or only with soap.
Cleaning with an ultrasonic device is also considered the optimal way to clean gently and lastingly. Furthermore, there are special denture cleaners in the form of tabs or powder, which are not only suitable for cleaning dentures, but also help to give loose braces a new freshness. Household remedies include solutions of vinegar and citric acid, which can be used diluted occasionally, but are by no means suitable for daily use. Users also report experiences with baking powder or baking soda, but these are not recommended as these products do more damage to the braces than they help. The right cleaning agent is different for each user, so consultation with the orthodontist or dentist can be informative.
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