How To Choose The Best Manual Toothbrush For Braces

If you use a manual toothbrush, then you might want to switch to a different kind of brush when you have orthodontic braces fitted. Braces can affect the way you access your teeth to clean them. You also have to take greater care when you brush to avoid damaging your braces. You need a brush that can clean both your teeth and braces as effectively as possible. You'll find that it helps to use a special braces toothbrush or a different kind of regular brush during your treatment. What should you look for in a toothbrush when you have braces?

Softer Bristles

If you currently use a toothbrush with medium or hard bristles, then you should switch to a softer brush. Harder bristles aren't as flexible around your brace wires. They might damage them if you brush too hard. So, look for toothbrushes with soft or very soft bristles. These brushes are less likely to get caught up in brace wires or to do any damage to them when you clean your teeth. They'll still give you functional cleaning on the teeth and gums.

Rounder Heads

Your braces might get in the way when you try to clean your teeth. You might find it hard to get a standard rectangular head into the right places to give all your teeth and gums an effective clean. You can buy manual toothbrushes with rounder and smaller heads. You might find that these brushes fit around your braces more easily. You should be able to access all areas of your mouth and all parts of your teeth.

Angled Handles

While you might be able to use a straight-handled toothbrush now, you might find it harder to manipulate the handle when your braces go in. You'll need to angle your brush more carefully when you clean around your braces. A straight handle might not give you the flexibility to do this. Look at brushes with angled heads or handles. While these styles take a little while to get used to, you'll soon find them a lot easier to manipulate around your braces.

Shorter Central Bristles

Some specialist braces brushes have a row of shorter bristles in the middle. They are designed to give you the right amount of contact with your teeth and gums above and below your brace wires. However, the shorter bristles help you brush without damaging your wires because they don't touch the wires as much when you brush.

For more advice on how to clean your teeth and braces safely and effectively, ask your dentist or orthodontist for advice. They can help you choose the right toothbrush and give you other tips on daily dental cleaning and brace care.

Contact a local dental office, such as Midtown Family Dentistry, for more information.