A doubt of many people, which also involves those who wear orthodontic appliances, is whether dental floss or toothbrush should be used first. So let’s see what are the advice of MC20 orthodontists for correct oral hygiene.
Dental floss: best used before brushing your teeth
Researchers have found that it is more effective to remove dental plaque with dental floss before brushing your teeth to also increase the concentration of fluoride contained in the toothpaste. This procedure makes the tooth enamel stronger and reduces the possibility of cavities formation.
Using dental floss before brushing also means removing more plaque and strengthening the teeth, minimizing the intervention of the dentist.
How to clean your teeth the right way
Are you sure you know how to floss correctly and how to clean your teeth well? MC20 orthodontists advise their patients to use this crucial accessory as follows:
- Floss twice a day before brushing your teeth;
- Brush your teeth for 2-3 minutes after each meal or snack, and if it is not possible rinse them with water;
- Always have your teeth clean before going to bed at night;
- Pay attention to the consumption of foods and drinks that contain sugars, which are responsible for the decalcification of the teeth and the appearance of caries.
The extra advice, in addition to the use of a toothbrush and toothpaste, is to make an appointment with the dentist every 6 months for regular cleaning.
Cleaning of teeth and orthodontic appliances
Proper oral hygiene allows you to remove problems and pathologies that involve the health of the teeth and mouth. However, using a brush and dental floss is complex in the case of those who wear orthodontic appliances that make the teeth more prone to the development of caries.
The cause is food residue and plaque, which accumulate in the appliance and lead to the formation of white spots due to descaling. In these cases, disorders such as swelling of the gums, halitosis, and caries are associated, but also more serious pathologies such as periodontitis.
The tools to use for perfect oral hygiene
The MC20 orthodontist advises everyone who wears braces not only to use the following tools for oral hygiene:
- Dental brush: it is the ideal accessory to remove plaque and small pieces of food trapped between the teeth and on the brackets and wire of the appliance;
- Mouthwash: rinsing the teeth every day strengthens the enamel and prevents the appearance of white spots on the teeth;
- Water flosser: is the dental shower used by the dentist to quickly sweep away food residues.
In particular, the combination of dental brush and mouthwash is very effective, to be combined with dental floss and toothbrush for deep cleaning of the spaces between the teeth.
At this point, first, floss and then toothbrush, to be combined with mouthwash and dental brush to have a smile that is always healthy and shining. And, for extra safety, we recommend you book a regular dental cleaning and hygiene session with MC20, your trusted orthodontist.