Interdental Toothbrush
A Proxabrush 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 other minor temporary injuries to the gums.
Topical Fluoride
PreviDent 5000 is a prescription strength sodium fluoride toothpaste that helps prevent tooth decay while you are wearing braces by killing bacteria and replacing minerals in tooth enamel that have been exposed to harmful acids. The use of PreviDent 5000 does not replace daily brushing and flossing but should be done following your daily schedule right before bedtime. Place a small strip of Previ-Dent 5000 on a toothbrush and apply it to your teeth for one minute and spit it out. If you must eat or drink please wait 30 minutes after use to allow the active ingredient to work best. We have PreviDent available at our office or we can write a prescription for you to fill at your pharmacy.
Cleaning Your Removable Appliance
Because food particles and plaque can accumulate on your appliance just as they do on your teeth, brush your removable appliance every day with toothpaste and water as a part of your regular brushing and flossing schedule. Do NOT use denture cleaner daily, only white vinegar once a month to remove buildup.