Cleaning around braces can be challenging. With all the hooks and wires, flossing can take quite a while! Of course, daily flossing is very important. However, mouthwash is an easy way to get your teeth even cleaner. Adding mouthwash to your oral care is quick and simple. In fact, this one extra step goes a long way. Below, we will help you choose the best mouthwash for braces.
Reasons to Consider Mouthwash with Braces
As you already know, brushing and flossing can be quite challenging with braces. You may miss some part of your teeth around the brackets and wires. Moreover, food debris can get stuck and start creating plaque. This will eventually cause a cavity if it’s not taken care of. However, you can avoid all these teeth cleaning troubles by swishing mouthwash around the mouth. If your mouthwash contains antiseptic or antibacterial ingredients, it can also get rid of cavity-causing germs.
People often ask if they should rinse with mouthwash before or after brushing or flossing. The order doesn’t really matter. What matters the most is that you regularly clean your braces and teeth.
Look For the ADA Seal
There is an easy way to tell if your mouthwash is dentist-recommended. The American Dental Association (or ADA) puts a seal on products they approve of. Look for the small square “ADA” seal on your mouthwash. This way, you will know it is a product you can trust.
The Importance of Fluoride
Fluoride is a key ingredient in many dental products. When choosing a mouthwash for braces, it is important to find a wash with fluoride. This will help to strengthen your teeth and also prevent cavities during your braces treatment.
Alcohol or No Alcohol?
Should you choose a mouthwash with alcohol? Lots of people like the stinging sensation from mouthwash with alcohol. However, this ingredient can cause mouth dryness. If you have braces, then a dry mouth can be extra sensitive to the feeling of your brackets. It’s best to skip the alcohol mouthwashes for now.
Don’t Forget the Floss
Mouthwash for braces is a great tool. However, it is not a substitute for flossing! Only flossing will remove small pieces of food debris. If you have braces, then it is very important to clean between your brackets and wires. Use mouthwash and flossing together for the perfect follow-up to brushing.
How to Use Mouthwash for Braces
Ideally, you should use mouthwash twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This doesn’t mean you should stop brushing or flossing, but it’s a worthwhile addition.
When using mouthwash, take your time to switch around your mouth. This way, you will loosen all the particles and get maximum protection for your teeth and gums. With braces, you are ultimately rewarding yourself with a more beautiful smile. Mouthwash can help you achieve those benefits as you find your way to a healthy and happy smile.
Visiting Your Dentist
We know braces patients are regularly seeing their orthodontists. However, it is still important to see your dentist, too. So, please feel free to visit Cypress dentistry. We will be able to clean around and under your brackets. This will prevent tooth decay during your braces treatment. Call The Smile Artisans to schedule your tooth-cleaning today.