When was the last time you inspected your child’s toothbrush? A toothbrush is the top tool in everyone’s arsenal of dental-care products, especially youngsters who wear metal or clear braces. A wide variety of toothbrushes are sold at most chain and independent drug stores. Finding and choosing a new one for your son (or daughter) will be a cinch.
The office of Maarten Broess DDS, DMSc, DMD, PC is dedicated to helping all of our patients enjoy the benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile that will last for the rest of their lives.
When your child first gets his braces installed, examine the bristles of his toothbrush. If they’re frayed or flat in some places, then they’re barely useful in removing particles of food, plaque and bacteria, which are the main causes of decay and gum disease. A new brush’s bristles stand straight, so they can reach all of those nooks and crannies.
A lot is asked of toothbrushes for kids with braces. The bristles get twisted and turned in all sorts of ways so they’re able to reach all of the nooks and crannies the orthodontic appliances create. The constant here-there-and-everywhere maneuvering disfigures the bristles more quickly, which will make them less effective.
Bacteria cling to bristles and the dried-up toothpaste on them. The longer a toothbrush is used, the more bacteria it contains. And because your child brushes his teeth at least twice a day, sticky stuff builds up quickly. Excellent oral hygiene is especially important for your son while he’s wearing braces. Ask his orthodontist how often he should start fresh with a new one. Bristles come in soft, medium or hard. Hard bristles can damage gums and enamel, and they’re poor at reaching nooks and crannies. An orthodontist will know which is best for his oral-care needs.
Young kids grow out of toothbrushes just as they grow out of clothes. If the head of your child’s toothbrush has become too small for his mouth, it’s time to upgrade one with a bigger head.
When you’re searching for an orthodontic practice that provides the topmost standard of personalized care, look no further than the office of Maarten Broess DDS, DMSc, DMD, PC. Our skilled team has your needs in mind. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment.
