Approximately 4 million people in the United States wear braces. Braces are usually given to people struggling with jaw or tooth alignment problems. If you have recently been outfitted with a new set of braces, you probably have a lot of questions about how to manage this dental hardware.
One of the main things people who are new to the world of braces want to know is whether or not they can use mouthwash. The short answer to this question is yes. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind when buying and using mouthwash with braces. Below are some things you need to know about using mouthwash with braces.
Use Mouthwash As a Supplement to Brushing and Flossing
The basic concept behind mouthwash is to provide your mouth with a thorough cleansing. This cleansing happens with the help of minerals like fluoride. Not only does fluoride freshen your breath, it can also help to clean hard-to-reach areas in your mouth.
The biggest misconception people have about mouthwash is that they can use it in place of brushing and flossing. In reality, failing to brush and floss your teeth in lieu of a mouthwash cleanse can create big problems. Ideally, you want to use mouthwash as a supplemental treatment to routine flossing and brushing.
The average mouthwash helps to kill harmful bacteria and remove plaque from your teeth. When used correctly, mouthwash can also help you avoid teeth staining and discoloration. By swishing mouthwash around, you can cover your teeth in cleaning minerals. Once you are done with the mouthwash, you can brush your teeth to properly clean them.
Selecting the Right Mouthwash
You may be surprised to learn just how many different mouthwash options are on the market. Before you make a selection, you need to educate yourself about what makes these products different. The type of mouthwash you choose will depend heavily on the dental conditions you have.
For instance, if you have gingivitis, you will need to choose a mouthwash that has antibacterial properties. People who are prone to getting cavities should choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
One of the things you need to avoid, especially if you have braces, is mouthwash products that contain alcohol. The alcohol in these products can actually dry out your mouth, which only contributes to tooth decay and bad breath.
Do you have more questions about how to maintain your new braces? You can learn more by contacting our team at I Song Orthodontics. We happily serve the areas of Berkeley, El Cerrito, and more.
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