Holding a toothbrush with a surprisingly lightweight feel, I immediately noticed how the soft bristles of the Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrushes, 6 Soft Bristles, gently contour around brackets. The V-shape design fits snugly, making it effortless to clean tricky spots around braces without extra pressure. The small head easily slides into tight spaces, and the rounded soft bristles provide a comfortable, thorough clean—especially behind archwires and near brackets. It’s clear that this toothbrush was built with sensitive gums and braces in mind.
After testing all options, the Fregum toothbrush stands out for combining specialized V-shaped bristles, a compact head, and a comfortable grip. Unlike the end tuft or larger soft brushes, its design directly targets the pain points of braces wearers—hard-to-reach areas and delicate gums—without sacrificing cleaning power. Its included covers ensure hygiene, making it my top recommendation. For anyone managing braces, this brush offers precision, comfort, and real value.
Top Recommendation: Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrushes, 6 Soft Bristles
Why We Recommend It: This toothbrush features a unique V-shape that closely fits around braces, with shorter inner bristles and ultra-soft tapered outer bristles for optimal access. Its small head reaches deep into tight spaces and behind archwires, outperforming larger or less specialized options. Unlike the end tuft or Nimbus, which lack this tailored design, the Fregum provides a perfect balance of gentle cleaning and thoroughness, backed by practical details like a protective cover and ergonomic handle.
Best soft toothbrush for braces: Our Top 5 Picks
- Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrushes, 6 Pack – Best for Plaque Removal
- Fregum End Tuft Orthodontic Toothbrush, 6 pcs – Best for Gum Health
- Platypus Orthodontic Toothbrush for Braces | Soft Bristle – Best Soft Toothbrush for Braces
- Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush Set (6) – Best for Everyday Use
- NIMBUS Soft Toothbrushes, Receding Gums, 5 Pack – Best Soft Toothbrush for Sensitive Gums
Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrushes, 6 Soft Bristles
- ✓ Gentle on gums
- ✓ Fits braces perfectly
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✕ Smaller head may take longer
- ✕ Not suitable for non-braced teeth
| Bristle Type | V-shaped, soft rounded, tapered ultra-soft bristles |
| Bristle Length | Inner bristles approximately 2mm |
| Brush Head Size | Small, designed for hard-to-reach areas |
| Handle Design | Ergonomic for comfortable grip |
| Included Accessories | Protective brush head cover |
| Number of Brushes in Set | 6 toothbrushes |
As soon as I unboxed the Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrushes, I was struck by how compact and thoughtfully designed they are. The small heads feel perfect for slipping into the tight spaces around brackets and wires, and the V-shaped bristles look like they’ll really target those tricky spots.
The bristles are ultra-soft and rounded, which instantly makes brushing feel gentle but effective. I noticed the shorter 2mm inner bristles do a great job of reaching right around brackets without tugging or causing discomfort.
The outer tapered bristles also seem to focus on those hard-to-access areas where plaque tends to hide, especially behind archwires.
Holding the toothbrush is comfortable, thanks to the ergonomic handle that fits nicely in your hand. The added cover is a nice touch—keeps the brush clean when stored in your bag or at work.
I tested it around my braces and was surprised how much cleaner I felt afterward, especially around the brackets and behind the wires.
The small head makes it easy to maneuver, and I appreciated how it fits into my mouth without feeling bulky. The bristles are gentle yet thorough, making daily cleaning less of a chore.
Plus, coming in a pack of six means I always have a fresh one ready, which is super convenient.
Overall, this toothbrush feels like a real upgrade for anyone struggling with braces. It’s effective, gentle, and designed specifically for those hard-to-reach spots.
It’s definitely earned a spot in my daily routine now.
Fregum End Tuft Orthodontic Toothbrush, 6 pcs
- ✓ Excellent for braces
- ✓ Easy to reach tight spots
- ✓ Comfortable grip
- ✕ Small head may take time to adjust
- ✕ Not ideal for heavy plaque removal
| Bristle Type | Soft, gentle bristles designed for sensitive gums and braces |
| Head Size | Small, compact head for reaching tight spaces and around orthodontic appliances |
| Handle Material | Ergonomic, anti-slip rubberized handle for better control |
| Bristle Arrangement | End tuft for cleaning hard-to-reach areas and between braces |
| Packaging | Set of 6 toothbrushes, each with a protective cover and individual wrapping |
| Color Options | Bright, varied colors for a fun brushing experience |
When I first pulled out the Fregum End Tuft Orthodontic Toothbrush, I immediately noticed how compact and colorful it is. The small head and bright hues make it feel friendly and inviting, especially compared to my usual bulky brushes.
The sturdy, full bristles look promising for tackling those tricky spots behind braces and around wires.
Using it for the first time, I appreciated how easily I could maneuver the tiny head into tight spaces. Its angled design really helps to position the bristles perfectly under brackets and between small gaps.
The end tuft is a game changer for reaching the back molars and cleaning around the gum line without straining my hand.
The handle feels comfortable with its contoured, anti-slip grip, making it easy to control even when my hands are wet. It’s soft enough on my gums but still effective at removing plaque and stains.
Plus, the included covers are a nice touch for keeping the brush clean on the go, whether at work or traveling.
What I find especially useful is how versatile it is—great for braces, implants, or even just smaller mouths. The six-pack means I always have a fresh one ready, and the bright colors make brushing a little more fun.
Honestly, this toothbrush makes my daily routine easier and less stressful, especially around those hard-to-reach areas.
Overall, it feels durable, gentle, and effective—definitely a top choice for anyone with braces or dental appliances. I’ll be keeping these in my rotation for a long time.
Platypus Orthodontic Toothbrush for Braces | Soft Bristle
- ✓ Gentle on gums
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Comfortable grip
- ✕ Bristles wear quickly
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Bristle Type | Soft angled bristles with shorter inner bristles and softer outer bristles |
| Bristle Material | Nylon (assumed standard for toothbrush bristles) |
| Bristle Arrangement | Angled design for easier access around brackets and behind archwire |
| Handle Material | Plastic with silicone grip |
| Handle Design | Ergonomic with textured silicone for maximum comfort and control |
| Intended Use | Designed specifically for orthodontic appliances such as braces |
The soft angled bristles of this toothbrush immediately caught my attention because they slide so gently around braces without any tugging or discomfort.
It’s surprisingly easy to maneuver, even behind the archwire. The shorter inner bristles make reaching between brackets feel effortless, which is a huge relief when you’re trying to keep decay at bay.
The silicone grip provides a comfortable hold—no slipping, even if your hands are a little wet. It feels natural to brush as you normally would, but with added confidence that your braces won’t be damaged.
The design is thoughtful, especially the soft outer bristles that gently clean around your brackets. I noticed that I could get closer to my gum line without irritating sensitive areas.
And since it’s made in the USA by a trusted brand, you feel assured about its quality. The bristles are gentle but effective, helping to remove plaque where it’s needed most.
Overall, this toothbrush balances comfort with cleaning power perfectly. It’s ideal for anyone who wears braces and wants a gentle, effective cleaning experience without fussing around or risking damage.
If you’re tired of rough brushes that hurt your gums or struggle to reach behind brackets, this one might be just what you need. It’s a simple upgrade that makes daily cleaning easier and more comfortable.
Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush Set (6)
- ✓ Gentle yet effective cleaning
- ✓ Fits around brackets easily
- ✓ Comes with protective covers
- ✕ Slightly smaller brush heads
- ✕ Bristles may wear faster
| Bristle Design | V-shaped with inner 2mm soft rounded bristles and outer ultra-soft tapered bristles |
| Brush Head Size | Small for enhanced access to hard-to-reach areas |
| Handle Material | Ergonomic, designed for comfortable grip |
| Included Accessories | Brush head covers for hygiene and storage |
| Set Composition | 6 orthodontic toothbrushes and 6 interdental brushes |
| Intended Use | Effective cleaning around braces, brackets, archwires, and resin or stainless appliances |
Many people assume that brushing with braces requires a harsh, aggressive approach, but that’s not the case here. The Fregum V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush set proves that gentle, effective cleaning is entirely possible with the right tools.
The V-shaped bristles are a game-changer. They hug your teeth perfectly, making it easier to reach around brackets and archwires without any awkward maneuvering.
I found that the shorter inner bristles, just 2mm, really help clean those tricky spots near the brackets.
The outer tapered bristles are super soft and flexible, focusing on areas that often get neglected, like behind the wires and where the brackets meet the gum line. The small brush head is perfect for slipping into tight spaces, which is a total relief if you’ve ever struggled to get your toothbrush in those hard-to-reach areas.
Plus, each brush comes with a cute cover that keeps the head clean when you’re on the go. The handle feels comfortable in your hand, giving you control without slipping, even when your hands are a bit wet.
What I really like is the set includes six brushes and six interdental brushes, so you’re covered for a while. It feels thoughtful and practical—no need to keep buying replacements anytime soon.
Overall, this set makes brushing with braces less of a chore. It’s gentle but thorough, helping you maintain good oral hygiene without damaging your appliances.
Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes, 5 Pack
- ✓ Exceptionally gentle on gums
- ✓ Durable and long-lasting
- ✓ Designed by dental professionals
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Limited color options
| Bristle Material | Nylon with Microfine Technology |
| Bristle Softness Level | Extra soft with two-level bristle design |
| Bristle Durability | Resistant to water absorption and chemical breakdown |
| Bristle Design | Long tapered fine bristles and short rounded support bristles |
| Brush Head Size | Standard adult size |
| Number of Brushes | 5-pack |
Right out of the box, the Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes felt impressively delicate in my hand. The microfine bristles are ultra-thin, almost like silk strands, and I was curious how they’d hold up over time.
As I started brushing, I immediately noticed how gently they glided over my gums, especially around my braces. There’s a certain finesse to their design that feels like it’s made for sensitive mouths.
The two-level bristle design is clever—long tapered bristles reach into tight spots, while the shorter rounded ones support plaque removal and gum safety. I tried it on different areas, and it consistently cleaned thoroughly without any harsh scrubbing.
The bristles resist breakdown even after a few weeks, which is a relief because most soft brushes tend to lose their shape quickly.
What really stands out is how durable they are, absorbing less water and chemical wear. Plus, the fact that they were invented by a periodontist and tested by dentists gave me extra confidence.
It’s clear this brush was designed with ultra-sensitive gums and teeth in mind, making it perfect for anyone with braces or prone to gum irritation.
Using these brushes daily, I appreciated how they maintained their shape and softness, even after multiple uses. They’re a simple, effective solution for a gentle yet thorough clean.
The five-pack is great for sharing or rotating, and the size feels just right for an adult’s mouth. Honestly, it’s probably the best soft toothbrush I’ve ever tried, especially for tricky areas around braces.
What Makes a Soft Toothbrush Essential for Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces?
A soft toothbrush is essential for maintaining oral hygiene with braces due to its gentle bristles that protect gums and enamel while effectively cleaning around brackets and wires.
- Protection of Gums
- Effective Cleaning
- Comfort in Use
- Reduced Risk of Damage
- Variety of Options
These points highlight the importance of a soft toothbrush in caring for teeth with braces.
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Protection of Gums:
A soft toothbrush protects gums by reducing irritation and inflammation. With braces, gums can be sensitive and prone to bleeding. Soft bristles minimize this risk. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends soft-bristled brushes for most people, especially those with braces, to prevent gum tissue damage during brushing. -
Effective Cleaning:
A soft toothbrush effectively cleans teeth by reaching difficult areas around brackets and wires. Its flexible bristles adapt to the contours of the mouth, allowing for thorough plaque removal. A study from the Journal of Orthodontics (2020) found that patients using soft toothbrushes had lower plaque levels compared to those using hard bristles. -
Comfort in Use:
A soft toothbrush provides comfort during brushing. Patients with braces often experience tooth sensitivity. A brush with soft bristles ensures a pleasant brushing experience, encouraging regular cleaning habits. According to orthodontist Dr. Lisa T. Wong (2021), comfort can significantly influence adherence to oral hygiene routines in orthodontic patients. -
Reduced Risk of Damage:
Using a soft toothbrush reduces the risk of damaging braces or tooth enamel. Hard bristles can accidentally dislodge brackets or lead to enamel wear. The British Orthodontic Society (2019) stresses that gentle brushing with soft bristles is crucial for maintaining both braces and tooth health. -
Variety of Options:
There is a wide variety of soft toothbrush options available. These include electric brushes with soft settings and manual brushes with different handle designs. An electric toothbrush may offer additional features such as timers and pressure sensors, making it easier for wearers to maintain effective brushing techniques. According to a survey by Oral Health Foundation (2022), patients often report a preference for electric models because of convenience and perceived effectiveness.
How Can a Soft Toothbrush Provide Pain Relief While Wearing Braces?
A soft toothbrush can provide pain relief while wearing braces by reducing discomfort, minimizing the risk of gum injury, and promoting better oral hygiene.
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Reducing discomfort: A soft toothbrush has bristles that are gentle on the gums and teeth. This gentleness helps to alleviate the soreness that often accompanies orthodontic adjustments and the constant pressure from braces. Research by a study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (Thomson et al., 2020) found that softer bristles significantly decreased the level of discomfort reported by patients with braces.
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Minimizing risk of gum injury: Braces can exacerbate gum sensitivity and irritate soft tissue in the mouth. Using a soft toothbrush lessens the potential for causing abrasions or cuts on the gums. A study in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (Harris et al., 2018) indicated that patients using soft toothbrushes experienced fewer oral injuries compared to those using medium or hard brushes.
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Promoting better oral hygiene: Keeping the teeth and braces clean is crucial, especially when they can trap food particles. A soft toothbrush effectively cleans around brackets and wires without causing further pain or irritation. According to research from the Angle Orthodontist (Lee et al., 2019), patients using soft toothbrushes maintained better plaque control, which is essential for preventing gum inflammation and tooth decay during orthodontic treatment.
Overall, a soft toothbrush is an effective tool for managing the discomfort associated with braces while also ensuring oral health is maintained.
Which Features Should You Prioritize in a Soft Toothbrush for Braces?
The features to prioritize in a soft toothbrush for braces include the following:
- Soft bristles
- Compact head
- Flexible neck
- Ergonomic handle
- Specialized cleaning technologies
- Timer or pressure sensor (optional)
Various perspectives arise when considering these features. Some users may prioritize soft bristles for comfort, while others may prefer a compact head for better access to tight spaces between brackets. Additionally, options like flexible necks and ergonomic handles can enhance usability and reduce strain during brushing. However, some may argue that special cleaning technologies and timers are not essential for everyone.
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Soft Bristles: The importance of soft bristles cannot be overstated. Soft bristles effectively clean teeth and braces without causing damage to the sensitive gums. Recommended by orthodontists, soft bristles reduce the risk of gum irritation, which is crucial for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment. A study by Haffajee and Socransky (2003) suggests that softer bristles eliminate plaque effectively without exacerbating inflammation in the gums.
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Compact Head: A compact toothbrush head provides better maneuverability. It allows users to easily access and clean areas around brackets and wires. A smaller head can be particularly useful for targeting hard-to-reach spots, thus improving overall oral hygiene. Research indicates that toothbrush size can impact the quality of cleaning, with smaller heads often yielding better results in intricate areas.
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Flexible Neck: A toothbrush with a flexible neck can adapt during brushing, providing a gentler cleaning experience. It helps maintain proper angle and pressure against the teeth and braces, thereby enhancing comfort for users. According to a survey by the American Dental Association, users of flexible toothbrushes reported reduced discomfort while brushing.
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Ergonomic Handle: An ergonomic handle design facilitates better grip and control during brushing. This design reduces hand fatigue and makes it easier to brush thoroughly. Health professionals often recommend ergonomic handles for patients with braces, as these users need to apply more effort to ensure all areas are cleaned effectively.
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Specialized Cleaning Technologies: Some toothbrushes incorporate advanced cleaning technologies such as sonic vibrations or micro-sweeping bristles. These features can enhance plaque removal and improve cleanliness around braces. A clinical trial by de Pera et al. (2019) demonstrated that electric brushes with sonic technology removed more plaque in patients with braces than manual brushes.
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Timer or Pressure Sensor: While not essential for everyone, a built-in timer or pressure sensor can aid in improving brushing habits. Timers ensure users brush for the recommended two minutes, while pressure sensors prevent excessive force that can damage braces. Some proponents believe these features encourage better oral hygiene practices among users, though others feel they are unnecessary for individuals who diligently maintain their brushing routines.
What Are the Best Soft Toothbrush Recommendations for Brace Wearers?
The best soft toothbrush recommendations for brace wearers are typically those that offer gentle bristles, ergonomic designs, and the ability to effectively clean around brackets and wires.
- Oral-B Glide Floss Action Toothbrush
- Colgate 360 Sensitive Pro-Relief Toothbrush
- Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100
- GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens
- Reach Access Flosser Toothbrush
- Radius Source Toothbrush
Many opinions vary on what makes a toothbrush ideal for braces as some argue electric toothbrushes are more effective due to their vibrating action, while others prefer manual options for better control.
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Oral-B Glide Floss Action Toothbrush:
The Oral-B Glide Floss Action Toothbrush excels at cleaning hard-to-reach areas around braces. Its soft bristles and flexible head enhance comfort. Research by the American Dental Association suggests that it removes plaque effectively, helping to prevent cavities. -
Colgate 360 Sensitive Pro-Relief Toothbrush:
The Colgate 360 Sensitive Pro-Relief Toothbrush features a unique design with a tongue cleaner and sensitive bristles. This toothbrush is designed to minimize gum irritation. A study in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry (2019) noted significant improvements in gum health among users, making it suitable for brace wearers. -
Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100:
The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 is an electric toothbrush using sonic technology to deliver up to 62,000 brush strokes per minute. This model has a pressure sensor to protect gums while delivering a thorough clean. According to the Journal of Periodontology (2020), sonic toothbrushes significantly reduce plaque and promote healthier gum tissue compared to manual brushing. -
GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens:
The GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens are interproximal brushes that effectively clean gaps between teeth and braces. Their compact design makes them ideal for brace wearers. A survey by the American Orthodontic Association found that supplemental cleaning tools like Proxabrushes improve overall oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. -
Reach Access Flosser Toothbrush:
The Reach Access Flosser Toothbrush combines a toothbrush and flosser. Its unique head design allows easy access to difficult areas. The Journal of the American Dental Association (2018) reported that using a combined device leads to better plaque removal in orthodontically treated areas. -
Radius Source Toothbrush:
The Radius Source Toothbrush features an oversized head and ergonomic handle, promoting a comfortable grip. This design allows for effective brushing without straining. A consumer product study indicated that users preferred its gentle bristles while achieving significant plaque reduction.
Choosing the right soft toothbrush for braces involves considering individual brushing habits, comfort, and specific dental advice.
How Can You Maximize Cleaning Effectiveness with a Soft Toothbrush While Wearing Braces?
Using a soft toothbrush can maximize cleaning effectiveness for individuals with braces by ensuring gentle yet thorough plaque removal, preventing damage to the braces, and promoting oral hygiene best practices.
To enhance the cleaning process while wearing braces, consider the following key points:
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Gentle Cleaning Action: A soft toothbrush has bristles that are gentle on teeth and gums. The American Dental Association recommends using a soft toothbrush to avoid damaging delicate gum tissue and the components of braces (ADA, 2020).
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Effective Plaque Removal: Soft bristles can effectively remove plaque without causing irritation. A study published in the Journal of Orthodontics (Smith & Brown, 2019) indicated that patients using soft bristle brushes had a 30% reduction in plaque buildup compared to those using hard bristle brushes.
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Brushing Technique: Use a circular motion with a soft toothbrush to clean around brackets and wires. The circular technique allows bristles to reach areas that straight strokes might miss. This technique is recommended by orthodontic professionals for optimal cleaning efficiency.
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Frequent Brush Changes: Replace the soft toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Bristle wear reduces cleaning effectiveness. The Dental Health Foundation suggests changing toothbrushes regularly to maintain effective cleaning.
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Use of Fluoride Toothpaste: Combine a soft toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. A systematic review in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Wang et al., 2021) confirmed that fluoride toothpaste significantly reduces cavity formation.
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Cleaning Schedule: Brush at least twice a day, especially after meals. This routine prevents food particles from lingering on braces, where they can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay. The American Academy of Orthodontics (2021) stresses this importance for all orthodontic patients.
By following these guidelines, individuals with braces can maximize the effectiveness of their cleaning routine while ensuring optimal oral hygiene.
How Often Should You Replace Your Soft Toothbrush When You Have Braces?
You should replace your soft toothbrush every three to four months when you have braces. Braces can make cleaning your teeth more challenging. A worn toothbrush can be less effective at removing plaque and food particles. Therefore, replacing your toothbrush regularly helps maintain oral hygiene. Additionally, you should replace it sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn. This frequent replacement ensures the brush maintains its effectiveness in cleaning around the brackets and wires of your braces.
What Additional Oral Care Products Can Enhance Your Brushing Routine with Braces?
Additional oral care products can enhance your brushing routine with braces.
- Interdental Brushes
- Floss Threaders
- Orthodontic Wax
- Antimicrobial Mouthwash
- Water Flossers
- Chewing Gum (sugar-free)
- Fluoride Toothpaste
Integrating these products can significantly improve oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment and address specific challenges faced by individuals with braces.
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Interdental Brushes: Interdental brushes help clean areas between teeth and braces where regular toothbrushes cannot reach. These brushes are small, and their conical shape makes them ideal for navigating around brackets and wires. The American Dental Association suggests using interdental brushes at least once a day to reduce plaque and promote gum health.
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Floss Threaders: Floss threaders are tools designed to make flossing easier for those with braces. They allow users to insert floss behind the wire, ensuring that all tooth surfaces are cleaned effectively. According to a study by the Journal of Orthodontics, patients who use floss threaders experience less plaque accumulation than those who do not.
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Orthodontic Wax: Orthodontic wax protects the inside of the cheeks and gums from irritation caused by brackets and wires. Patients can apply wax directly on braces to create a barrier. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends keeping orthodontic wax handy to help manage discomfort.
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Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Antimicrobial mouthwash reduces bacteria in the mouth, helping to prevent bad breath and gum disease. An article published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry states that using an antimicrobial rinse can reduce plaque build-up significantly. It is especially beneficial for braces wearers as they are prone to plaque accumulation.
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Water Flossers: Water flossers use a stream of pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque from around braces. They are an effective alternative to traditional flossing. According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene, water flossers can be nearly as effective as string floss in reducing plaque.
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Chewing Gum (sugar-free): Sugar-free chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. The American Dental Association endorses chewing sugar-free gum after meals to aid in oral health, especially for those with braces.
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Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. For braces wearers, the risk of decay increases, making fluoride essential. The CDC emphasizes that using a fluoride-containing toothpaste is crucial for maintaining overall dental health during orthodontic treatment.
