Tooth brushing Mistake No.4: “Brushing Too Often or Too Hard”
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Brushing Too Often or Too Hard
Getting braces like Invisalign is one of the best ways to enhance and protect your smile, providing a lifetime benefit. However, some people with dental hardware get over zealous in caring for their teeth during orthodontic treatment. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Don’t overdo it
Everyone should brush daily with appropriate equipment like a clean toothbrush and dental floss. However, you don’t need to spend five or ten minutes at it. Dentists and orthodontists often recommend brushing for one to two minutes at a time. Check with your orthodontist to find out his or her recommendation for brushing while wearing braces.
Take it easy
Just because you have metal in your mouth doesn’t mean you have to brush intensely to have a cleaning impact. Experts often suggest using a soft-bristle toothbrush that effectively removes food particles from the surfaces of and between teeth. Vigorous brushing can actually be harmful in potentially stripping the protective enamel coating on your teeth. Brush gently but firmly for the allocated time suggested by your orthodontist team to get maximum benefits without damaging your teeth.
Brush after eating
There’s no need to clean your teeth numerous times a day. Instead, brush and floss after eating to remove food particles while they’re readily available. Extra brushing may seem like a good idea if you are wearing dental braces like Invisalign. But actually, you don’t need to brush any more than normal as long as you do a good job, but don’t overdo it.
Contact McDermott Orthodontics to Learn More About Treatment for Adults
In Minnesota, you can visit McDermott Orthodontics to learn more about the orthodontic treatments that are designed for adults. Dr. Michael McDermott offers services to patients living in these areas:
• Delano – 763-972-4444
• Pequot Lake – 218-568-5600
• Brainerd – 218-829-1630
• Baxter – 218-829-1630
At McDermott Orthodontics, our patients can receive treatment with these orthodontic devices:
• Damon system – self-ligating devices
• Clear devices – made with clear brackets
• Invisalign aligners – suitable for adults
• Ceramic devices – made with color-matching brackets
With our top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment, we can determine how to improve the positions of your teeth with a few months or several years of orthodontic treatment. To learn more about orthodontic braces, schedule an appointment today.
Toothbrushing Mistake No.4: “Brushing Too Often or Too Hard”
McDermott Orthodontist
708 Elm Ave. E.
Delano, MN
55328
TEL: 763-972-4444

Dr. Michael McDermott earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in both Chemistry and Biology from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He followed his undergraduate degrees with a doctorate in dental surgery at the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with highest distinction.
Dr. Mike then furthered his dental education by earning a masters and certificate in Orthodontics at the University of St. Louis in Missouri.