A Proxabrush (Butler) is an interdental (between the teeth) toothbrush that you may use to clean underneath and around your wires and braces. Use the Proxabrush gently to avoid damaging your wires. The Proxabrush will help you to clean your braces while maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Antibacterial Mouthwash
Peroxyl, a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouth rinse, will reduce inflammation to your gums and cheeks. Peroxyl helps to prevent infection and decrease irritation that may develop from your braces. Rinse your mouth with two teaspoons of Peroxyl (half a capful) for one minute and then spit it out. You may use Peroxyl up to four times daily following your schedule for brushing: after meals (or after school) and before bed. Just like using peroxide for a scrape on your skin, Peroxyl helps the inside of your mouth heal. Peroxyl can be used for general irritation caused by your braces or for canker sores, cheek bites and minor temporary injuries to the gums.
Topical Fluoride
Fluoride rinses help prevent tooth decay while you are wearing braces by killing bacteria in plaque and replacing minerals in tooth enamel that have been exposed to harmful acids. The use of a fluoride rinse does not replace daily brushing and flossing but should be done following brushing. Use a half capful and squish for one to two minutes, trying to cover teeth, then spit out. Do not swallow. Use once or twice daily. It is important for the active ingredient to stay on your teeth for 30 minutes, so do not wash it away by eating or drinking.
We have a prescription fluoride rinse for sale at our office. You may purchase Act or Fluoriguard, available at your pharmacy or grocery store, without a prescription.
In the morning before school or work or in the evening before bed are good times to use fluoride.
Cleaning Your Removable Appliance
Brush your removable appliance every day as a part of your regular brushing and flossing schedule. Food particles and plaque can accumulate on your appliance just as they do on your teeth. Your appliance will taste better, and you prevent plaque and bacterial accumulation on the acrylic.
Do not use denture cleaning solution on any of the appliances that have wires. These agents cause oxidation of the solder joints and will shorten the life of your retainers. All-acrylic appliances and bleach trays may be cleaned with denture cleaning solutions if you wish.
