Orthodontic care is a journey to achieving a straighter, healthier smile, and for many, traditional braces in Raleigh are an essential part of that process. If you’re currently undergoing treatment with traditional braces or are considering them, you likely already know that maintaining oral hygiene during the treatment is crucial. That’s where the importance of National Brush Day comes in. At Keyser Orthodontics in Raleigh, Dr. Mary Morgan Keyser and her team emphasize the need for good brushing habits, especially for those with braces.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how traditional braces work, why oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment, and how National Brush Day serves as a great reminder to keep your teeth in top shape.
How Do Traditional Braces Work?
Traditional braces have long been a reliable and effective way to straighten teeth and correct alignment issues. The system consists of metal brackets attached to each tooth, connected to wires by rubber bands. These components work together to gradually move your teeth into the desired position by applying consistent, gentle pressure over time.
Some of the common dental issues that traditional braces can correct include:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite or underbite
- Crossbite
- Misaligned jaws
Each of these issues can affect not only your appearance but also your overall oral health. Misaligned teeth can be harder to clean, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease. That’s why, for many patients, traditional braces are about more than just aesthetics—they’re also about achieving better long-term oral health.
The Role of Oral Hygiene with Traditional Braces in Raleigh
One of the biggest challenges for patients with braces is maintaining proper oral hygiene. The brackets and wires create additional nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can accumulate. If not cleaned thoroughly, these areas can lead to:
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Gum disease
- Discoloration or staining around the brackets
- Bad breath
For this reason, patients with traditional braces must adopt a diligent oral hygiene routine. The team at Keyser Orthodontics will provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to each patient. Dr. Keyser recommends brushing after every meal, using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Special orthodontic or electric toothbrushes designed for braces can help you clean around the brackets more effectively.
Flossing is crucial in addition to brushing. However, it can be tricky to floss with traditional braces, which is why we often recommend tools like floss threaders or orthodontic floss picks. Regular use of an antiseptic mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria and keep your gums healthy.
National Brush Day: A Perfect Reminder for Oral Hygiene
National Brush Day, celebrated on November 1st, is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene, particularly for those with braces. This day comes right after Halloween and after the NC State fair here in the triangle, a time when candy consumption can increase the risk of cavities. For patients with braces, the combination of sticky or hard candy and the challenges of cleaning around braces make good brushing habits even more essential.
National Brush Day reminds you to step up your oral care routine and do everything you can to keep your teeth and gums healthy. At Keyser Orthodontics, Dr. Mary Morgan Keyser uses this opportunity to educate patients and their families about the best brushing techniques for those with braces and orthodontic appliances in Raleigh, Knightdale and the greater triangle.
Tips for Brushing with Braces
Here are some helpful tips to ensure you’re keeping your teeth clean while wearing braces:
- Brush After Every Meal – Food particles can easily get stuck in your braces, leading to plaque buildup. Be sure to brush after each meal to prevent cavities and staining.
- Use a Soft-Bristled Brush or Electric Toothbrush – Soft bristles can clean effectively around the brackets without damaging them, and electric toothbrushes are excellent for providing a thorough clean.
- Brush at an Angle – Tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle to clean under the brackets and along the gumline. Use small circles for best plaque removal.
- Don’t Forget to Floss – Use a floss threader to clean between your teeth, or opt for an interdental brush to reach those tricky spots.
- Rinse with Mouthwash – An antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash can help kill lingering bacteria and strengthen teeth.
Leading the Way in Traditional Braces in Raleigh
At Keyser Orthodontics, Dr. Keyser and her team can help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Traditional braces remain a popular option for patients of all ages due to their proven effectiveness. Whether you’re dealing with alignment issues, crowding, or bite problems, traditional braces can provide you with the results you’re looking for.
Dr. Keyser’s team will guide you through your entire orthodontic journey, from the initial consultation to the final reveal of your new smile. They will also help ensure that your oral hygiene remains top-notch throughout your treatment, emphasizing the importance of good brushing habits.
Celebrate National Brush Day with Keyser Orthodontics
National Brush Day is the perfect time to recommit to your oral health routine, especially if you’re wearing traditional braces in Raleigh. Dr. Mary Morgan Keyser and the team at Keyser Orthodontics in Raleigh are here to support you every step of the way. By maintaining excellent oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment, you can ensure a brighter, healthier smile once your braces come off.
Whether you’re just starting your orthodontic journey or are in the middle, don’t forget to celebrate National Brush Day this November 1st with a thorough cleaning routine! Schedule an appointment today!
